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Theta
Θ
Founded	April 2, 1875 (1875-04-02) (149 years ago)
College	University of Missouri
Location	Columbia, MO
Province	Zeta South
Homepage	Theta Homepage
Media related to Theta Chapter

University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, established 1839

Chapter Founded April 2, 1875

3,942 initiates (as of June 2014)

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

Fraternity Council Members Officers:

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

Fraternity Loyalty Award Recipient:

Marie Bryden Macnaughtan, 1956

Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:

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

Additional Outstanding Theta Alumnae

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

World War I

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

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

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

World War II

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter Convention Awards:

1950 Fraternity Finance 1954 Standards 1962 Fraternity Appreciation 1964 Westermann Efficiency

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

Highlights of the 1970s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter Convention Awards:

1976 Chapter Publications 1978 Advisory Boards

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

Highlights of the 1980s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter Convention Awards:

1980 Advisory Boards 1982 Efficiency (Housed) 1984 Standards 1987 Gracing Living (Housed)

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

Highlights of the 1990s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Philanthropy: The three-day event (party) of Membership Recruitment was now devoted to philanthropy. One year potential new members and Kappas made colored tissue flowers for the Rusk Rehabilitation Center. In 1998 the GKSF awarded seven $1,000 scholarships to Panhellenic women including two Kappas. The fund that started with $60,000 now totaled nearly $400,000. Interest from the fund’s investments had made it possible to award 54 scholarships to young women on the Mizzou campus during the preceding 11 years.

The previous information was excerpted from From Bustles to Blue Jeans, A History of Theta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 1875-2000.

Highlights of 2000-2010

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter Convention Awards:

2004 Effective Chapter Management 2006 Recruitment (10-14 Panhellenic groups) 2006 Adelphi Society Bronze 2006 Public Relations Honorable Mention 2006 Philanthropy 1-2-3 Honorable Mention 2006 Advisory Board Honorable Mention 2006 Technology Honorable Mention 2006 Gracious Living Honorable Mention (Housed) 2008 Most Outstanding Chapter 2010 Academic Excellence Honorable Mention 2010 Recruitment Honorable Mention

The previous information was excerpted from issues of The Theta News, the Golden Key Scholarship Fund newsletter, and The Key.

Highlights of 2011-2019

From chapter’s History Report: Scholarship, group honors/awards, traditions, special events, changes on campus or within chapter, overall nature of the chapter, chapter goals, challenges and how they were overcome, etc.:

Highlights 2012

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights of 2013

January 2013 2013 was another productive year for Theta Chapter here at the University of Missouri. Our great house director Linda Orman did an exceptional job with keeping up the house and caring for the 86 women living in our wonderful home. President Kenzie Rauch along with the other newly elected officers of chapter council came into office with a vibrant energy, excited to take on the roles and responsibilities given to them. Theta Chapter benefited greatly from the work these dedicated women did for our chapter.

February 2013 Similar to last February and many years before, on the 23rd Kappa participated in one of the University of Missouri’s largest philanthropies known as RAMS. RAMS, which stands for Rockin’ Against Multiple Sclerosis, offers multiple events over a course of different days. There is a t-shirt sale competition, Cup Night sales, Jail ‘n Bail, comedy night and many other activities. Our very own Lilli R. was one of the three Tri-Directors for the RAMS philanthropy this year. Another fun activity put on by RAMS was the skit and dance competition. The kappa dancers along with a few others participated in this event. One of our members even showed off her talent for baton twirling! Our theme for the skit and dance was Cirque de Kappa.

March 2013' During March, Theta Chapter was very busy. On the 15th our annual Prohibition social was held. All the lovely members and their dates got to dress up in 1920’s attire as flappers and gangsters. Many fun pictures prove that Prohibition was an enjoyable success.

Kappa also held the annual Signature Event. This event is put on for Kappa’s national philanthropy RIF (Reading is Fundamental). We continued the tradition of our theme being Dr. Seuss since it was such a success in the past years. Kelsey H., Kappa’s Beneficiary Chairman, did a fabulous job planning various activities for the kids to participate in, such as an arts and crafts project as well as performing a skit from parts of various Dr. Seuss books. At the end of our Signature Event, held at Grant Elementary School this year, all of the children in the class, student taught by one of our members Shelby Harper, got 2 books as a present and hopefully an inspiration to continue to read. On the weekend of March 2th, Kappa also welcomed their mothers to Columbia, Missouri from all over the country to celebrate Mom’s Weekend. Payton M. and Sarah H. did an excellent job planning Mom’s weekend.

Friday night started out with a night full of socializing and dancing for the mothers and daughters that was held at the classy Upper Crust venue. The next day mothers and daughters spent their days relaxing and unwinding from the dancing done the night before. Most went shopping and out to lunch, then at night, everyone was offered the opportunity to go to a discounted showing of Safe Haven, a classic romantic film, at Forum 8. On Sunday, our awesome chefs made a delightful brunch was served at Kappa followed by a few boutiques set up with many fun things to buy such as jewelry, scarves, and various other accessories. It was such a nice weekend enjoyed with the ladies we love and adore. Finally, in the middle of this month Kappa’s were finally allotted the opportunity to volunteer at our local philanthropy Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center.

April 2013 April was a very exciting month around kappa. The most exciting news around the house was winning Greek Week overall, for the second year in a row! This year we were paired with the men of Lambda Chi Alpha and Sigma Pi. We were fierce competitors in sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and flag football. Unfortunately, the surprise event this year, steal the bacon, was cancelled due to terrible weather conditions. Despite the unfavorable weather, those who didn’t participate in the games were cheering loudly from the sidelines with painted fleur-de-lis on their faces, rocking signature KKG sunglasses and sprit gear. Jody P., a spunky freshman, even came up with the idea of having a 4 girl cheerleading squad at every sports competition; they even had their own cheers and everything! The fans continued to show their support even in the freezing rain. Our efforts together brought us to the top yet again!

May 2013 During the Spring 2012 semester, Kappa Kappa Gammas at Mizzou were recognized for various campus honors such as, Mortar Board and being tapped into various honor societies. Congratulations to Hannah B. for being chosen for Mizzou Mortar Board! Mortar Board is an American national honors society of elite seniors at the University of Missouri who have consistently upheld the values that Mizzou represents. In addition, they have been extremely involved on campus, through service work and maintained dedication to their schoolwork. Mizzou 39 is a very similar secret society like Mortar Board that Cara W. was tapped into. Congratulations to Caroline T. for being tapped into the honor society, Omicron Delta Kappa! ODK is a secret and highly selective national honor society that chooses its members based upon rigorous involvement in collegiate areas such as, scholarship, athletics, campus involvement and various other academic-based sectors. Also, Congratulations to Kelsey H. for being tapped into the honor society, QEBH. QEBH is the oldest of the six secret honors societies on Mizzou's campus. While the actual name and inner workings of QEBH are kept secret, we do know that they keep the Victory Bell, a trophy that has gone home with the winner of the Missouri-Nebraska football game since 1927. Finally, congratulations to all of our wonderful seniors that left us this year!

Summer 2013 Though it was the end of the school year at the University of Missouri Kappa’s were keeping busy. A total of eight Kappas were Pi Chi’s for this year’s formal recruitment! The highest number of Kappa Pi Chi’s yet. Some Kappa’s also remained involved with campus activities over the summer break by being Summer Welcome Leaders helping incoming freshman get prepared for their first year at Mizzou. This year PHA also decided to adopt their own philanthropy called Circle of Sisterhood. Two Kappa’s were on the PHA Executive Board for 2013 but one, Paola R. and 2 other Kappa’s got the special opportunity to go to Africa with Circle of Sisterhood to help build a school house for a community that could not afford it otherwise. The school was built solely by sorority women from all over the country. Several other Kappas traveled the world over summer break whether on vacations with their families, internships, or study abroad trips. Their destinations ranged from China to New Zealand to England and even to Brazil. There is no doubt that the summer of 2013 was a very busy one for the members of Theta chapter!

August 2013 After reuniting with old friends, Mizzou Kappa’s dove into “Work Week” to prepare for Recruitment. After a summer of preparation, Megan Beykirch and Page Dodam led the chapter in putting on an outstanding recruitment. Work Week had a few themed days in which the girls had a lot of fun with such as “Decades,” “USA,” and a day where each pledge class competes to have the best theme. All of the hard work put into Work Week paid off during recruitment week. Some of the highlights of recruitment week included our amazing skit performed on Sisterhood Day that is consistently hilarious every year. This year’s theme was the Kappa Kappa Gamma pageant. Who would be Miss Kappa Kappa Gamma? On Philanthropy day, the house was transformed into a high class golf course to illustrate our infamous Kappa Klassic Philanthropy. This was the first year we changed the theme from our usual “Dr. Seuss” theme that illustrated our national philanthropy RIF. The change was a big one, but it was quite successful! Finally, on Bid Day, a beautiful banner sporting the phrase “KKG Under the Sea,” as that was our theme, was hanging from the columns of the house. All of the actives were eagerly anticipating the 83 new members’ arrival. When they arrived, new members were showered with gifts and hugs and enjoyed a Bid Day at a swim park where everyone enjoyed some delicious barbecue and some fun in the sun.

September 2013 Thursday, September 26th, was a very exciting day to be a KKG at Mizzou! The sophomore pledge class was thrilled to become Pledge Moms and the New Members were even more excited to become someone's Pledge Daughter at the Pledge Family Reveal! And as far as the juniors and seniors go, let's just say they were very excited to welcome someone new into their pledge family...but not so much about being called someone's "Pledge Grandma" or "Pledge Great-Grandma"! Sophomores were in charge of making shirts for their pledge family and all of them turned out adorable! After the Reveal, each Pledge Family went out to enjoy a nice dinner.

The Kappa Klassic was also held this month and it consisted of two weekends full of fraternity men and klassy fathers playing their best rounds of golf. This year a record number of funds were raised by the Kappa Klassic. $44,500 was split three ways and benefited the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center, and RIF. Needless to say Kelsey H. and Devin W. did a phenomenal job at organizing and hosting the largest philanthropy in Greek town. This is not the only phenomenal job that Kappa’s did this month however; Sarah H. and Payton M. hosted an amazing Dad’s Weekend which consisted of a bonfire party on Friday night followed by a fun tailgate before a great Mizzou football game on Saturday. Other achievements include Kathleen K. becoming the lead Coordinator for the newly established Truman’s Closet on campus. Truman’s Closet is a non-profit organization that rents out professional attire for those in the Columbia community that have important job interviews but not enough money to buy nice business attire. They also offer services such as mock job interviews and resume building classes. And finally, numerous Kappa’s decided to get deeply involved in the University of Missouri’s largest campus philanthropy, Dance Marathon, by either becoming Steering Committee members or Dance Moral Captains. What can’t our members do?!

October 2013 With homecoming coming up Kappa could not be more proud of our sister Sarah Barr for being nominated for Mizzou's Top 30 Homecoming Royalty. On October 4th, also in the spirit of Homecoming, we held our denim themed marriage party to our wonderful Homecoming pairings, Theta Chi and Farmhouse. This was Theta Chi’s first year participating in Homecoming. Also, in October, one of our members, Lindsey Pierce, founded a new organization on campus called Executive Women International Collegiate. The organization’s goal is to introduce its members to professional mentors in the working fields of their interest and to help prepare them for the task of being women in the real world of business. Multiple Kappas applied to be in this new organization and Lindsey plans to do big things through EWIC on campus. Kappa also renewed an old tradition of celebrating Halloween with Chi Omega by throwing an “Owl”-oween social. It was truly a blast getting to spend such a fun holiday with a fellow sisterhood.

November 2013 November was yet another busy month around Kappa. The women of Kappa and the men of Theta Chi and Farmhouse took on Mizzou's 102nd Annual Homecoming Celebration with the theme of "Washington D.C."! Overall, we took home 2nd place! The other categories, we placed as follows: 1st place House Decs, 1st place Banner, 1st place Merchandise, 1st place Service, 4th place Blood, and Best Supporting Actress in Talent. November 2nd and 3rd, we welcomed 80 New Members into our wonderful sisterhood! During I-week, members showed their spirit by wearing different colors each day. In addition, there were fun activities planned to build the bond of Kappa's sisterhood. Tuesday, there was a movie night in the New Member room at the Kappa house. For dinner on Thursday, the new members were invited to a special Blue and Blue dinner cooked by our creative chefs! Friday was the beginning of a fun-filled and very successful Initiation!

Thank you to our Marshal, Lindsey P., her assistants, Chapter Council, and all the alumnae who put in so much hard work throughout the week/weekend and made this Initiation smooth and very successful. Kaddy Shack is a social in honor of the two golf teams who win the Kappa Klassic (Kappa’s philanthropy). The men of Alpha Gamma Sigma and the men of Sigma Pi won the fraternity portion of the Kappa Klassic and Kaddy Shack was held of the 22nd. Once again, Kappa and Pi Beta Phi celebrated the founding of our sororities at the same college, Monmouth on the weekend of the 16th! The first night was a bonfire and hayride and the following night was a venue social. On the Sunday following Initiation, the Columns Ballroom at the University Club was filled with over 250 actives and alumni. The Kappa ladies ate a lunch of Dijon chicken while they listened to the wonderful keynote speaker, Leigh Neier, talk about what it means to truly call someone your “sister”. Representatives from each pledge class spoke beautifully about their experiences in Kappa, and we were honored to give out a 50-year pin to Cynthia Miller Mustard and a 65-year pin to Helen Wells Wilson. Everyone enjoyed listening to the Kappa Pickers sing “Drifter” and junior, Lindsay P., sing her original song “The Beautiful and Good”.

Pledge Class Speakers: Freshmen: Kate W. Sophomore: Ryan D. Junior: Amy M. Senior: Kenzie M.

Most Outstanding Member of Each Pledge Class: Freshmen: Lauren G. Sophomore: Allison D. Junior: Maddie T. Senior: Lilli R.

Gracious Living Award: Kelci D. Most Active Senior Award: Page D. Behind the Scenes Award: Brooke H. Martha Stevens Toller Award: Kenzie R.

December 2013 In December, the ladies danced the night away at the last social of the year, Semi-Formal. With finals approaching and stress levels high, Kappa’s were ready for the holiday season. This year Kappa won the award of “Dedication to Member Academic Excellence” at the Greek Life Honors Night. Upon return from Thanksgiving break, elections for the new Chapter Council were also held. The new officers are as follows:

President: Maddie Taylor VPS: Alyssa Fancher VPO: Hallie Herrmann VPAE: Taylor Luetkemeyer Recording Secretary: MJ Rodgers Corresponding Secretary: Sarah White Treasurer: Caroline Sechler Registrar: Kara Klemp Marshal: Maddie Poletis Education: Jody Peterson House: Rayanna Becker Recruitment: Suzanna Thorne Membership: Natalie Fischer Philanthropy external: Claire Fischer Philanthropy internal: Laura Sickman New Member: Allison Doerr Public Relations: Haley McDill Events external: Bekah Bade Events internal: Elissa Arnold Risk Management: Allison (Bobbie) Roberts Panhellenic Delegate: Jamie Ras

Campus Description: University of Missouri-Columbia

Enrollment (Fall 2013)

Total: 34,658 In-State: 24,743 Out-of-state 9,915 Undergraduate: 26,965 Graduate: 6,439 International: 2,236

Greek Life (Fall 2013)

Total # of Greeks 7,442 Total # of Greek Men 3,107 Total # of Greek Women 4,335 Total # of PHA Women 4,319

% Of Greek Students 27% % Of Greek Men 11% % Of Greek Women 16%

Annual Undergraduate Cost, 2013-14

Missouri resident total: $22,943 Non-resident total: $37,292 Tuition and fees: $9,415 (resident); $23,764 (non-resident) Room and board:$9,286 Books and supplies: $946 Personal and transportation: $3,296 Costs assume 14-hour enrollment each semester

Changes On Campus: Due to our switch to the SEC, our campus has been doing a lot of construction to better our athletic sporting centers such as renovations to Faurot Field, the volleyball courts, and Wolpers dorm. Another big highlight on our campus this year was our very successful football season. The Mizzou Tigers worked their way all the way to the Cotton Bowl and the head football Coach, Gary Pinkel, beat Faurot this year with the largest number of wins as head Coach. However, our football team was not the only successful Mizzou sports team; our girls’ volleyball team was undefeated for majority of their season up until the tail end. So congratulations, to all of the Mizzou Tiger sports teams for such a successful second year in the SEC.

Overall Nature of Theta Chapter The feeling that you get when you walk into the Theta Chapter Kappa house is almost indescribable. The best way that I can describe the feeling is immediately comfortable and homey. The women in this house make it a home. These women are the most genuine, successful, noble, true and good young people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I could go on forever but I would rather just say that the true nature of the Theta Chapter is that it is a home away from home. You will always find love and acceptance among these women. I have become a better person from knowing these Theta Chapter women and it is because this sisterhood is so strong. You will always find a home here at Theta Chapter.

Highlights of 2014

January 2014

Theta Chapter at the University of Missouri had yet another smooth move in day. Linda Orman, our very own house director, helped to make move in day with 86 girls run as smoothly as possible and continues to care so well for our home on 512 E. Rollins St. President Maddie Taylor, accompanied by the rest of the newly elected Chapter Council, stepped into office with positive attitudes and ambitious mindsets, ready to take on the duties that come along with representing Kappa. Throughout the year, these lovely women upheld their responsibilities with beauty and goodness. Sarah White, a member of the junior pledge class, studied abroad in New Zealand and Australia taking Theta Chapter international! Kennedy Calton, a newly initiated member of our chapter, was chosen as Student Assistant for Mizzou Football Multimedia.

February 2014

With one month of 2014 under our belt, Theta Chapter got right into participation on campus both as individual members and as a chapter. RAMS, which stands for Rockin’ Against Multiple Sclerosis, one of MU’s largest philanthropies, was just one of the events we participated in. The RAMS Steering Committee included some of Theta Chapter’s proud members, Katie Gengler, Reena Bhagat, and Carly Wooldridge. Mizzou for Malawi, another incredible service organization on campus, has a goal to continue fundraising for the primary school in Malawi. They have already established and gained enough funds to eventually open a secondary school. Kali Boland, Reena Bhagat, and Jenn Croft, three Kappas here at Mizzou, were all honored with being on this steering committee beginning in February. Lauren Greenheck, Alyssa Fancher, Maddy Poletis, Jamie Ras and Kirsten Kuc were all accepted into Mizzou’s Outreach Student Recruitment team, which helps potential students with their transition into college and is an honorable campus position to hold.

March 2014

This month was very busy and exciting for the women of KKG. We started the month with our annual social, Prohibition, a 1920s themed event that is always a chapter favorite. This upbeat and sensational social was held at Cherry Hill, a nice venue in Columbia, and was of course a blast for all of the members and their guests. Another event, put on for Kappa’s national philanthropy, Reading is Fundamental, was also held in March. For this event we held a book drive prior so that each child could bring home a new book from the school day event. Kappa members went into four classrooms at a local elementary school and read Dr. Seuss books to them. We also helped them make their own Cat in the Hat craft. The kids were able to take home their new book, hat, and a bookmark from the event. Also in March, mothers from across the country gathered at Mizzou to celebrate Kappa Kappa Gamma mom’s weekend. We began the weekend with a visit to Déjà Vu, a comedy club here in Columbia where all of the girls and their mothers shared a good laugh. Early Saturday, two busses of Kappas along with their mothers headed to The Lake of the Ozarks where they shopped all day long at the outlet mall. Sunday morning, Kappa’s house was filled with many tables and booths from Columbia retail shops and boutiques that displayed items available for purchase. In the dining room, a full buffet of brunch food was prepared and displayed by our lovely cooks, Jim and Donny. The weekend was filled with many fun times and memorable moments that won’t be forgotten. Elise Ferron, a Kappa junior was elected to be Vice President of Mizzou Special Events Society, an organization on campus dedicated to helping students prepare for event planning with hands on experiences. Melinda McMahon, another Theta Chapter member, was elected as a justice for the Mizzou Student Conduct Board, a high honor to be held. Girls in our chapter were also able to begin volunteering at Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center, one of Theta Chapter’s local beneficiaries.

April 2014

April, arguably the best month in 2014, depending on whom you ask in Greek Town, was filled with lots of excitement for the Kappa girls. The Kappa Kappa Gammas of the University of Missouri won Greek Week overall for the third year in a row! Kappa and our partners Delta Sigma Phi and Beta Sigma Psi’s hard work was reflected in the multiple categories of Greek week in which we placed. Wish makers, a philanthropy on MU’s campus, was graced with a new member of its steering committee, our very own Kristina Airdo. Elise Ferron, a previously recognized Kappa junior, was promoted from Fundraising Chair to President of CMAA, an amazing organization that connects students to the professional world in the hospitality industry and is recognized on an international level. Also this month, Madison Scheper, a Kappa freshman, and two juniors, Hannah Overfelt and Lindsay Pierce, were accepted to travel with 60 Greek students to Harmons, Jamaica for a service project through an organization called Won by One.

May 2014

Jamie Ras, a junior in Kappa, was tapped into Omicron Delta Kappa, one of Mizzou’s secret societies. The ceremony, held for the past 85 years, was in Jesse Auditorium to recognize not only students’ academic success but also service and leadership on campus. Congratulations to Freshman Alison Yoakam who was elected to the Executive Board of Alpha Kappa Psi, a fraternity in the University of Missouri’s Robert J. Trulaske College of Business and the student council for the College of Business itself. Lauren Richter, also representing Kappa Kappa Gamma in Alpha Kappa Psi, was elected as pledge class secretary. Finally, congratulations to all of our amazing seniors that left us this year!

Summer 2014

Kappa Kappa Gamma was represented by seven recruitment counselors, or Pi Chis, this summer: Katie Allen, Maddie Buchanan, MJ Rogers, Caroline Sechler, Haley McDill, Melinda McMahon and Jody Peterson. These girls helped facilitate and lead the largest recruitment Mizzou as ever seen. Many Kappas traveled all over in the summer of 2014 including Kara Klemp and Claire Winegar who studied abroad in Greece, and Emily Thomson who had an internship with Vince Camuto in Greenwich, Connecticut. Ally Adrian, Alyssa Goldberg, and Allison Doerr were all selected to be Summer Welcome Leaders and help incoming freshman plan their first semester here at Mizzou.

August 2014

After a lot of traveling and a busy summer for most of the Kappas, a reunion at 512 E. Rollins was much needed. “Work Week” was so much fun for all of the members of Theta Chapter, but also hard work at the same time. All of the effort put into Work Week was definitely reflected in a wonderful recruitment week and flawless new pledge class. After preparing for the entire summer, Natalie Fischer and Suzanna Thorne guided the chapter in an exceptional recruitment. A few highlights from recruitment week included our always-hilarious skit, themed as “Miss Kappa Kappa Gamma” on Sisterhood Day. On Philanthropy Day, the house was transformed into a high-class golf course to illustrate our famous Kappa Klassic philanthropy event. The most anticipated day, Bid Day, was very successful! This year’s theme, “Sweet Home Kappa Gamma,” was a lot of fun for the all of the girls that could now call Kappa home. All of the active members were elated when the 92 new members arrived on Kappa’s lawn! There was BBQ and other snacks courtesy of Kappa’s cooks. The night held a special surprise, up and coming country singer Corey Kent White performed a private concert for the Kappas. The concert was the icing on the cake for the best bid day yet! Also in August, Cheyenne Kline found out she will be an intern during the summer of 2015 for The New York Times and doing a multimedia apprenticeship for National Geographic.

September 2014

This month was such a happy one for the Kappas at Mizzou! The sophomore pledge class members were all ecstatic because this September was Pledge Family Reveal! The members of PC ‘14 were showered with gifts throughout the week that ended in the ultimate gift, a new pledge family to call their own! New members were able to enjoy a nice dinner after the reveal with their big, “grandbig” and “greatgrandbig” in KKG. The Kappa Klassic was also held this month and consisted of two weekends, one for Kappa dads and one for fraternity men and other campus organizations. This year our Kappa Klassic raised an astounding $40,500 that helped benefit the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation, Cedar Creek Therapeutic Riding Center, and RIF, making it the largest sorority philanthropy in Greek town! Along with a lovely round of golf on Sunday, the Dad’s enjoyed an event at Quinton’s, a local restaurant and bar, and a Saturday football game against Indiana. The entire weekend was fun-filled for the dads and their Kappa girls. Some of Kappa’s members including Suzy Bambini, Lauren Berger, Claire Fischer, Bridget Pederson, and Kirsten Thouvenot became involved with and eventually joined the coordinator board for Camp Kesem Mizzou, a student-run summer camp for children who have or have had a parent with cancer, provided free of charge to all of its campers. Additionally, after founding an Executive Women International-Collegiate chapter, Lindsay Pierce handed down the title of presidency to our very own Sammy Patten. Together they have started three new collegiate chapters of EWI this year.

October 2014

Another year, another crazy Mizzou homecoming! With Halloween right around the corner, Kappa’s homecoming theme of haunted house couldn’t have been more perfect! Preparing for homecoming was a lot of hard work and a team effort, but all of the Kappas and our partners in Alpha Tau Omega had a lot of fun. We even managed to get first in the Mizzou Homecoming Blood Drive. This October, Debonie Lewis, a junior, was recognized as a member of the recruitment team for MizzouThon, Mizzou’s newly named Dance Marathon event. Madison Adrian, Katie Lynch, and Baylee Francka were also all welcomed into Mizzou’s Alumni Association Student Board. They state that it is their “noble mission as true sons and daughters of the University of Missouri to safeguard the traditions of our alma mater, to foster a sense of pride within the Mizzou community, and to serve as the governing board for all True Tigers.” Without a cheer and dance team for the Special Olympics here at MU, Kelsey Boschert, a Kappa sophomore, took the initiative to start it herself this October! Kennedy Calton, Laura Maurer, Jessica Kaiser, and McGuire McManus all became a part of Tiger Crew, a group of girls who support the Mizzou baseball team through fundraisers, working at games, marketing and interacting with the fans. This month was also exciting because it was filled with a very important event, Initiation! The Inspiration Period was filled with fun days for the women of Theta Chapter and activities at night to further strengthen the bond of our sisterhood. Some of these activities included a Blue and Blue dinner at the house and a movie night in the new member room! Thank you to our Marshal, Maddy Poletis, her assistants, Chapter Council, and all the alumnae who put in so much hard work throughout the week and made this Initiation smooth and very successful. We were so blessed to initiate all of our wonderful new members into our incredible chapter. The Sunday following Initiation, the University Club was filled with over 250 actives and alumnae. The Kappa ladies ate a lunch and dessert while listening to the wonderful keynote speaker, Morgan Adrian, a Theta Chapter alumna and member of PC ‘10. Representatives from each pledge class spoke beautifully about their experiences in Kappa and we were honored to give out multiple fifty-year pins. Everyone enjoyed listening to the Kappa Pickers sing “Drifter” and junior, Lindsay Pierce, sing her original song “The Beautiful and Good.”

November 2014

Here at Theta Chapter, our favorite social Monmouth was celebrated with our neighbors across the street in Greek town, Pi Beta Phi. Both sororities and their dates had a blast celebrating the founding of our sororities at Monmouth College. The first night hosted a costume party and the second night was at an indoor/outdoor venue with a hayride and a DJ. This month Debonie Lewis also found out she will be interning for the U.S. Senate under Senator Roy Blunt!

December 2014

December was a studious filled month for the Kappas since finals were approaching and stress levels were high. Our house mom, Linda, and the cooks, Jim and Donny, did a wonderful job planning “finals food” for the girls to snack on while staying up late and studying. In 2014, Theta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma won the award of “Excellence in New Member Programming” award at the Greek Life Honors Night. Upon returning from Thanksgiving break, elections for the new Chapter Council were held. The new officers are as follows:

President: Maddy Poletis VPS: Ally Adrian VPO: Allison Yoakam VPAE: Kiersten Kuc Recording Secretary: Laura Edlow Corresponding Secretary: Kate Wadley Treasurer: Molly de Jong Registrar: Morgan Kleine Marshal: Lauren Greenheck Education: Rosie Hutchison House: Jackie Frey Membership: Erika Beykirch Philanthropy: Kelsey Boschert New Member: Caroline Pfeiffer Public Relations: Brittney Frazier Events: Meagan Heaney Risk Management: Ellie Senneff Panhellenic Delegate: Sara Duft

Campus Description: University of Missouri-Columbia

Enrollment (Fall 2014) Total: 35,441 In-state: 24,586 Out-of-state: 10,855 Undergraduate: 27,654 Graduate: 6,565 International: 2,417

Annual Undergraduate Cost, 2014-15

Missouri residential total: $24,704 Non-residential total: $38,730 Tuition and fees: $10,286 (resident) $24,312 (non-resident) Room and board: $9,640 Books and supplies: $1,114 Personal expenses and transportation: $3,664 (Costs assume 14-hour enrollment each semester)

Nickname: “Mizzou” Mascot: Truman the Tiger More than 280 degree programs More than 600-plusstudent organizations More than 40 club sports and rec sports

Changes on Campus:

There was no lack of construction on Mizzou’s campus in 2014. One big change was the addition of a new dining area, Sabai, and their a–la–cart menu features many Southeast Asian favorites, including rice bowls, lettuce wraps, Thai chicken curry and Ginger Grab Wontons. Also this year, in honor of MU’s 175th anniversary, the MAA funded the construction of “Traditions Plaza,” an outdoor amphitheater that now provides an outdoor gathering and programming space for use by MU students, faculty, staff, visitors and alumni. Traditions Plaza will be a place where members of the campus community can enjoy concerts, spirit rallies, outdoor classes and a wide assortment of other activities.

Overall Nature of Theta Chapter:

The feeling that you get when you walk into the Theta Chapter is a feeling like no other. 512 E. Rollins St. is indescribably welcoming and homey. All members bring their own personality and individuality to the mix while all still having one thing in common, humor. A sense of humor, to me, is what really sets Theta Chapter apart from the others. There is always a sister, if not multiple sisters, to help pick you up when you are feeling down by simply cracking a joke. The women here are honorable, intelligent, hilarious, and dedicated, constantly representing the Kappa Kappa Gamma name, beautifully. There will be laughs echoing through the halls of this beautiful place we call home for many years to come.

Chapter Meetings and Housing:

Chapter meetings are held in the Theta Chapter house dining room.

Woman behind the Badge:

Over the summer one of our outstanding members, Cheyenne Kline, traveled to Nairobi, Kenya for a research project. While she was there, she met a woman named Jane Jimono who was in charge of an orphanage, Pricilla’s. A few days later Cheyenne started a website and other media outlets for Priscilla's to get the word out for monetary donations. After a few weeks and several very generous donations, Priscilla's became eligible for classes with certified teachers. In November, Priscilla's had its first day of school with over 57 students. Cheyenne included the entire chapter by requesting that members bring gently used or new school supplies, letters, or monetary donations to the Kappa Kappa Gamma house, so that they could be sent in a care package to Pricilla’s in Nairobi. Cheyenne still keeps in touch with everyone in Nairobi and is very grateful for it.

No members wear historical badges.

Highlights of 2020s:

From chapter’s History Report: Scholarship, group honors/awards, traditions, special events, changes on campus or within chapter, overall nature of the chapter, chapter goals, challenges and how they were overcome, etc.:

Housing:

Philanthropy:

Chapter Convention Awards:

Note to Chapter Registrar: Please refer to your chapter archives including chapter meeting minutes and back issues of The Key to fill in any gaps in the above historical highlights. If your chapter archives are not complete, please research your university library, campus newspaper and yearbook archives for newsworthy information about your chapter. Please double check your work for accuracy. Contact chapter Advisory or House Board members, local Alumnae Association members, or your Province Director of Chapters for assistance.

Your efforts will ensure a complete and accurate history of your chapter for future generations to enjoy!