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'''Some of Beta Xi’s Outstanding Members:''' (If you have chapter alumnae who have received recognition in any of these three categories, please list them with the date(s) of recognition.)
'''Philanthropy:'''==Highlights of 2016==
Philanthropy was a priority for Beta Xi in the twenty-first century. The chapter maintained traditions such as the Kappa Klassic Pool Tournament, which raised almost $5,000 for a charity in 2006. Other philanthropic activities included holding a Chili Cookoff with the Tri-Delts, volunteering with for the SPCA and the Highland Park Elementary Halloween carnival, decorating the Children’s Hospital for various holidays, hosting Easter and Halloween parties for local children, and making Christmas cookies for hospitalized children. Children have always been a major focus for the group, and in 2008, the sisters provided free winter coats to children through Coats for Kids.
Two new philanthropy traditions began during this decade. In 20092016 was a year characterized by strength, endurance, and evolution for Beta Xi hosted its first Kappa Cookout. Still without our beloved house, an event that invited community members to join the sisters for delicious catered food. That yearKappas faced new challenges, bound together by friendship instead of the proceeds from selling tickets to walls of the event, $7,600, went to house itself. The Austin Children’s Sheltercampus climate was tumultuous. The following year, the chapter raised more than $8,000 itself stumbled and donated fell on a few occasions. But as the proceeds year comes to the RIF (Reading is Fundamental)a close, we can look back and say that in spite of all of Austinthat, specifically to the Palm Elementary Schoolwe learned and we grew. Donations were also made to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. The other new philanthropic event was a powder puff football game with Pi Beta Phi We are finishing 2016 stronger, more unified, and better than when we began it. Proceeds from the tickets were donated We are excited to the Davis Moon Projectmove into our house come January! But before we transition into 2017, a non-profit organization that collects books we want to be hand-delivered through organized literacy mission trips in Addis, Ethiopialook back and reflect on all we learned.
'''Convention Awards:'''Without our trusty senior girls to guide us and without a house to meet in, Chapter Council braved the unknown and began to meet. Ellen Crowe (President) began the year with efficiency and care, planning and leading Chapter Council meetings. They finalized edits on the chapter bylaws and standing rules, educated themselves on how to use the Kappa drive and webinars, and reviewed the expectations and responsibilities of Chapter Council members with the help of Hailey Becker (VP Organization). She went over goals for the year, including chapter unity, continuing to revamp philanthropy, and getting the chapter on board with the Risk Management policies, as well as the rules and goals of Standards Committee. Chapter council discussed some ways to hold the chapter accountable for their actions at events and to reinforce new standards for behavior for everyone. We decided to change our buddy system from “bigs” and “littles,” to a “pick-a-buddy” system, where the girls signed up with a friend before events to be their accountability partner. Grace Winstonbus-riding attendance at events, while AnnaWittenmyer (VP Standards) streamlined the way we approach standards decisions. Sara Shaw
==Highlights (House Chair) worked tirelessly alongside our House Board, as renovations plowed on. Kathryn Stouffer (Public Relations Chairman) continued to educate members about the GIN system and published yet another great issue of 2011-2019==“Round Up”, the annual Kappa newsletter. The new leaders conducted the first few chapter meetings with thoroughness and efficiency, growing more comfortable meeting in the Student Union and in their new positions. The year started off with a bang, with an organized Chapter Council and an excited group of Kappas.
==Highlights In February, Kappas were getting settled in with their classes, and the officers were beginning to get the hang of 2011==their new responsibilities: planning events, running meetings, and fulfilling their duties more easily. Berkley Johnson (Philanthropy Chair) took it upon herself to completely revamp In 2011, Beta Xi focused on strengthened sisterhood and encouraging scholarly achievementXi’s philanthropic efforts. A chapter retreat was held She continued the new partnership with the B+ Foundation that the last philanthropy chair began, combining Kappa’s passion for the benefit reading with our love of kids.We adopted a B+ Hero named Moriah, who is battling cancer, and made her an honorary “sister.” Kappas began visiting Moriah at the members hospital, playing games, doing puzzles, and “get-when she felt up to-know-you” games were played at the it, even having dance parties with our newest little Kappa house. Sisterhood activities included Nightmare on 6th StreetMallory Morris (Event Chairman) and Grace Winston (Risk Management) pulled off a great Monmouth formal at Brazos Hall, Tri-Delt Ranchand everyone had a wonderful time with their dates and Pi Phi friends. Riley Longtain (Membership Chairman) held a very successful first recruitment workshop with the freshman, teaching them the in’s and out’s of rush and the importance of the spring semester for recruiting. While Kappa Cocktailprepared for recruitment, so did Alex Page (Panhellenic Delegate) and Monmouth. The Grace Anne McGinnis, a Kappa who served as Vice President-Academic Excellence stressed the importance of good grades with the new “Smarty Pants” system at chapter meetingsUT’s Panhellenic Council. Alumnae members are often invited They began a wonderful year of working together and representing Kappa well to campus to speak other sororities and to UPC. We rounded out the chapter about job applications month with a visit from our moms, with fun shopping events and careersa brunch at The Grove downtown to celebrate Mom’s Weekend.
'''Housing:'''Then came March, another great month for Beta Xi is currently one of only two Greek houses , as the spring semester was in full swing. Hannah Love (Marshal) led a successful and efficient ritual workshop to refresh the chapter on the University ritual and history of Texas at Austin campus in whichour organization. 60 members are able Erin Kreindler (VP Academic Excellence) continued to encourage the girls to live, most usually live in during their junior or senior year. Every Mondaystudy hard, with fun Study Snacks events like pizza catering and coffee after chapter! Riley continued to hold Rush Workshops with the freshman and the sisters gather older girls to prepare for dinner before the chapter meeting, recruitment and lunch develop a strategy to show girls what Kappa is provided every day for members. Every two weeksall about, despite our lack of a delicious Mexican Guest Lunch is held where Kappas can bring a guest from outside of house. Hailey Becker (VP Organization) worked hard to plan for the Fraternityleadership consultant’s upcoming visit in April.
'''April was a busy month as usual for Beta Xi. Our leadership consultant, Kate Burton, came and brought some amazing ideas for our chapter with her. She hung out with our members, doing fun things around Austin and helped our officers grow in their leadership abilities. Hailey Becker (VP Organization) did an amazing job making Kate feel at home. Berkley Johnson (Philanthropy:'''Chair) Beta Xi continued hosting the spring Easter party helped plan our fundraiser, Kappa Pi-Phi Carnival, complete with snow cones and the fall Halloween party live music, raising money for local elementary students every yearour philanthropy. In 2011We love joining forces with another sorority who also cares about supporting literacy, and the Kappa Cookout event was again a blast as usual. She also held by the a successful RIF event at Wooldridge Elementary. The entire chapter came together and raised $7set up stations at the school to play games, read, decorate bookmarks,800 for and get their faces painted. At the end of the Davis Moon Projectlaughter-filled event, each child took home a book (or two!). Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) planned an organization previously supported by Beta Xi’s effortsawesome Dad’s Weekend, with food catered on a fun rooftop venue and the chapter attending the Spring football game with their dads. Kappa once again faced off She and Grace Winston (Risk Management) also planned another successful event with our friends in Theta, called Kite & Key. The event was held at a game venue downtown and everyone had a wonderful time. A senior Kappa, Kallen Dimitroff ran for Student Body President of the University of powder puff football against Pi PhiTexas, an event that raised approximately $5and despite her campaign’s loss,000 for it wasincredible to see the Austin Children’s Shelterwhole chapter gather around her and support her with pride.
==Highlights of 2012==Kappa events slowed and finals approached, as May rolled around. Caroline Smyrl (Education The 2012 calendar year started off with the newly elected officers of the Beta Xi Chairman) conducted Senior Sendoff, a fun event after chapter making a smooth transition into their new positions. Chapter Council also kicked off where we recognize the year by hosting the LEAD seminar with Kappas seniors and hear funny memories from Texas A&M years past, including poems and Texas Tech“twinkies” from some seniors’ parents. The chapter councilThese very seniors then became alums after graduation celebrations, led by President Erin Weitzeland it was made official in Key Reports. Some of them got into top graduate schools to continue their studies, met every Sunday evening while others headed off to plan upcoming meetings and events throughout work in cities around the yearcountry. Erin implemented pillars of organization and enthusiasm which They were off into the world! Payton Scott (Treasurer) worked hard to set up the tone budget for the chapter council upcoming school year, and held budget meetings with all of the Chapter Council officers. This was Tai Massimilian (New Member Chairman) and Riley Longtain (Membership Chairman) both worked hard to prepare for recruitment and the new pledge class coming in August, with the added challenge of finding a very important year home for Beta Xi Spirit and many improvements were made Recruitment weeks without our house. We talked to event halls and fraternity houses, and we finally found a place to better hold the events and welcome our chapter this past yearnew members…stay tuned below! Riley also held the last recruitment workshop and began planning for the summer with her incredible team. The officers worked very hard to better the chapter girls in dorms, apartments, and efficiently houses packed their bags and effectively follow headed out their dutiesof Austin, waving goodbye to this school year.
Callie WilliamsOver the summer, Kappa sisters spread out across the globe for internships, jobs, and study abroad programs. From Spain, to New York, Vice President of Organizationto Paris, maintained an organized calendar of all the events throughout the year to Dallas and communicated with officers Houston and the chapter about what events Galveston, to put on all the calendar. Along with Callie way in Australia, Kappas took the Chapter Council put together a great Leadership Action Plan that highlighted the goals of the Chapter for the upcoming yearworld by storm. Callie also assisted with giving chapter members But the ability months flew by, as summer always does, and came to fill out a Google Form close. By August, everyone was ready to indicate which committee they are interested in and would prefer get back to be intheir Kappa friends, rather than simply designating members to random committee. This was a big change for our Chapter Committees that made members at large much more dedicated Austin, and to their committee. Callie also prepared for the Leadership Consultant's visit to the the Beta Xi Chapter and hosted her during her stayUniversity of Texas.
Laurel PuglieseBut unlike years past, Vice President of Standardswhen Kappas ran into our house on University Avenue to prepare for recruitment, this year we ran into…the Sigma Alpha Epsilon house, worked another temporary home! The SAE fraternity boys kindly let us borrow their conveniently located house for a few weeks. And as we did with her committee to perfect the bus system and make sure members were upholding Union, we turned the standards of the Fraternity policySAE house into a home. Laurel also organized the Chapter retreat at Alamo Draft house in January Kappa seems to encourage chapter-wide bonding. All have an uncanny knack of Beta Xi attended for singing and dancing to 90's musicmaking anywhere feel like a loving home. Laurel also planned many events for the Chapter to increase bonding such as movies at It could be a room in the Student Union, a study abroad dorm, a cramped apartment full of Kappas working in New York city, or a fraternity house or profit shares at Red Mango, but if Kappas are together, it feels like home. It is definitely a skill we are proud of!
Ady WetegroveRiley Longtain (Recruitment Chair) and her team’s hard work over the past semester culminated at the end of August. Spirit week was a blast, Vice President Academic Excellenceand the chapter’s hard work during a long week of recruiting paid off when 68 awesome new members came running to the Littlefield fountain on campus, helped our Chapter improve our overall GPA to be above the All Sorority Average for the Spring welcomed by our chapter with open arms. The stresses of 2012. She a long Recruitment and her committee held individuals more accountable for their individual grades while providing them assistancebeing without a real home took a toll on the chapter, however. She also incorporated “office hours” for New Members Our chapter stumbled on Bid Night with some behavioral issues that we know are unacceptable. Ellen Crowe (President) and the Chapter Council quickly jumped into action, taking ownership of our mistakes and any other members needing further guidance during registration for trying to get the Spring 2013 semesterchapter back on track. She also organized study snacks at We would have been lost without the fearless leadership of Ellen, the patience of Anna Wittenmyer (VP Standards), the house on Tuesday planning of Hailey Becker (VP Organization), and continued the "Smarty Pants" system from last yearmaturity of Tai Massimillian (New Member Chairman). We knew there would be consequences and this would be a long road ahead, but we also knew that changes that needed to occur. We were nervous but excited for how our chapter would evolve because of this challenge.
Philanthropy Chairman Margaret Smith In spite of the chaos, September rolled around, and the Kappas were back. With a crazy Longhorn football win against Notre Dame, we began our classes with excitement and our horns up high! We continued holding chapter meetings in the Student Union, our temporary home. The first meeting ran smoothly as chapter council got back in the swing of things, and Assistant Philanthropy Chairs Ellen Perkins the new members learned the ins and Courtney Catalani worked together to plan all outs of their new chapter-wide philanthropy . Following the eventsof Bid Day, we were visited by Emily Murdock and Illiana Garcia, our Theta District director and specialist. Margaret made some changes this year to They helped our Chapter Council remember the “why?” of our program chapter, as well as realign the goals of Beta Xi with that of the national philanthropy, Reading is Fundamentalorganization. They inspired our leaders to be better and to lead our chapter out of this slump. She planned They began helping us build a Reading Festival for the whole strategic plan to improve our chapter to attend to teach kids and spend help us rectify the mistakes of the day working weeks prior. Weeks passed, with them the first formal meeting held by Hannah Love (Marshal) and having fun with kidsprogram nights like the one featuring Shannon Moody, where we learned about the Jeremiah Project, a center for single mothers, organized by Caroline Smyrl (Fraternity Education Chairman). Hailey Becker (VP Organization) revamped committee nights, helping each committee set goals for the semester. She We also planned a book drive had an exciting visit from the Fraternity President Beth Black, held at an alumni’s house in Austin. It was incredible for some of our officers to meet such an inspiring leader of the organization that we love so much. Erin Kreindler (VP Academic Excellence) was happy to report that each kid could take home a book13 of our chapter members received 4. Margaret also helped plan Kappa Cookout 0 GPA’s in the Fallspring, Pi Phi vsand the chapter’s cumulative GPA was 3.47, as the grade report came in. Kappa philanthropy powder puff game competed in the springsecond annual Greek Get Down dance competition—and though we didn’t place like we did last year, and got members involved with we had so much fun dancing! Much of the Wonderball where we went dressed team was made up as princesses of our new members, so it was a great way for freshmen, sophomores, juniors and helped with face paint and costumesseniors to all get to know one another. Margaret provided the chapter with many other volunteer activities such as Kisses from Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) organized our first fun event, Kappa Kidnap, at a dance hall outside of Austin. With cowboy boots and dresses on Valentines Day where we took valentine goodies , the Kappas danced the night away to country music from a retirement homelive band. Soon enough the semester was in full swing.
Sara Beth TunnelOctober was yet another busy month for Beta Xi. The TX-OU football game was a blast, even though our beloved Longhorns lost. Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) planned a fun date event with Tri-Delt, worked hard to plan and schedule all of ended the social month with our traditional Halloween dance, called Owl-o-ween, with Chi Omega. We absolutely love doing events for with our friends in other sororities! But double the girls, means double the yearamount of people trying to safely get home. She worked very closely with Despite some bumps in the road in our risk management policies in the past, Grace Winston (Risk Management Chair) and Anna Wittenmyer (VP Standards) did an amazing job encouraging everyone to plan events that would be safe follow our policies. The buddy system became more successful as the semester went on, and uphold the Fraternity standardsas well as bus riding attendance. She found fun Hannah Love (Marshal) did a stellar job planning and unique venues to host events with other sororities or parents of Kappasexecuting Initiation, in our second year without a house. In 2012 she planned Kappa Pi Phi MonmouthInitiation was held in a different church than the year before, Kappa Mom's Weekendbut Hannah was calm in the face of chaos, Kappa Dad's Weekendand the event ran as smoothly as ever. The newly initiated members had a wonderful morning, Kappa Date Dashand afterwards joined their parents and friends for a fun brunch at Hotel Ella near campus. Caroline Smyrl (Fraternity Education Chairman) did an outstanding job planning Founder’s Day. The event was held at AT&T Conference Center. Actives and alumnae alike enjoyed stories from alums, songs from the Kappa Chi O Owloweenpickers, Kappa Tri Delt Ranchand a presentation by the House Board, Kappa Parent's Weekendwho has worked so hard on the house renovations. Hannah Love (Marshal), Kappa KidnapKaki Miller (Key Sis Chair), and Kappa Cocktail. These events were funTai Massimilian (New Member Chairman) worked together to organize a “Big Sis, safeLittle Sis” event with photos by the University Tower, organizedthen on to fun event at a trampoline park! Avery Travis (Registrar) planned composites, and help brought the Kappas “smiled pretty” for their photos. Avery coordinated with the same company from the year before to have composites taken in the Union. Our temporary home at the Union was really starting to feel like ours own—we had taken over! Many chapter closer togethermembers said they will actually miss our makeshift Union “house. ”
Kelsey Koentges, Pubic Relations In November the semester was quickly wrapping up. Mallory Morris (Event Chairman, ) did a great job planning a fun parent’s weekend and a Kappa Kasual, our last event of helping keep members active and bridged the gap between semester. The event was held at Cedar Street Courtyard downtown, with a fun live band. Then came the chapter, university, parents, and alumstumultuous 2016 Presidential Election that divided our campus. She created a monthy newsletter to send Kappas went out and voted for their choice, but our nation was not the only thing that was struggling to parents unify in the face of Kappas adversity. Ellen and theofficers continued to edit and work on the Beta Xi chapterStrategic Plan for upcoming year. She also planned With Ellen’s great vision and the Easter help of the national organization itself, our specialists and Halloween partythe chapter members, both we were held at able to construct a plan that would allow Kappa to grow in the coming years. Avery Travis (Registrar) was elected slate chairman, and worked extremely hard to conduct meetings with her dedicated and passionate slate committee to nominate the house officers for next year. This year was tougher than ever, with so many great candidates stepping up for alumni and their childrenofficer positions. She helped organize The Slate Committee knew how important these choices were, considering the issues from Bid Day, the babysitting list strategic plan, and the new trajectory that Kappa Chirstmas card which was sent out on—in order to other UT sororities improve and families of Beta Xi memberscome back stronger. Kelsey also kept The committee worked hard to pick the system best possible girls for the chapter council of 2017. The committee gave the "Round Up Newsletter which summarized slate presentation at meeting in November, and officer transitions began quickly after, and the year new and sent it out old Chapter Councils began working together. As usual, Kappas were able to come together to the Chaptercreate a unified group of sisterhood and friendship.
Kathryn UeckerNovember turned quickly into December, Fraternity Education Chairman, was with only one week in charge of planning program nights between Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks for some girls. Hailey Becker (VP Organization) planned a wonderful Leadership Day at a delcicious restaurant, where the new and old officers can get together with their advisors and go over the expectations and goals for the houseupcoming year. She provided Our chapter worked hard to get through final exams and the end of the chapter semester, with Erin Kreindler (VP Academic Excellance) planning yummy Study Snack events throughout the weeks of finals! The Kappas wrapped up a long but fun speakers and programs such as Zumbayear. Another large improvement 2016 was made by Kathryn by re-implement Senior Programming – a once a month program night challenging but incredible year for growth for Seniors in place of meeting. Kathryn also planned Founders Day in October where the Beta Xi chapter recognizes .Despite challenges from the house renovation, the political and campus climate, and our own behavioral issues and changes, our chapter grew stronger and closer than ever, evolving to become the founding members best chapter we can be. We cannot wait to move into our beautiful new home, and we look forward to taking on 2017, equipped with everything we have learned and hosts an event for alumni the goals we plan to accomplish in the Austin area. next year!
Mary Beth Burgher, Membership Chairman, assisted by Sullivan Franklin-Mitchell, Isabel Dann, Molly Henson Describe the recent changes on your campus and Kat Schindler succesfully prepared for Recruitment. They held 3 recruitment workshops in describe the spring to plan for recruitment in the fall. They also implemented new fun ways to celebrate recruitment such as having members talk about their favorite parts overall nature of recruitment during your chapter meetings. They set up different committes and helped implement new change. Beta Xi greeted the largest pledge class in Kappa history and we celebrated the new members on Bid Day by taking them to Abel's on the Lake for a fun dinner.
Katie SatterwhiteCampus climate was tense in 2016, New Member Chairmanas it was much of the world. Yet another Student Government election occurred on campus in the Spring, worked hard alongside Avery Walker to integrate the this time with a Beta Xi running for office. Racial tensions and a new members into campus carry law caused protests and fractured our student body. The year culminated in one of the most controversial Presidential Elections ever, occurring in November. Our own chapterfaced some of the biggest pitfalls and hardships we have ever faced. We lost loved ones and made mistakes. But through all of this, Beta Xi Kappa persevered together. They organized many different activities We stood up for the new members our beliefs and helped bring them together as a pledge class for each other, admitted our faults, and as grew into a stronger chapter. They taught Our chapter is well known at the new members the traditions University of Texas for being involved in and well liked by all groups on campus. Kappas are friendly, open-minded, intelligent and active in university life. Kappas are so well integrated and history involved in our diverse on-campus commitments, that our main goal in 2016 was to increase Beta Xi chapter unity. In spite of Kappa. They worked alongside Caroline Cooper a rocky campus climate and our Marshall own troubles within Beta Xi, we hoped to teach increase the New members the rituals bond of Kappa after Initiationsisterhood in our chapter. They made Inspiration week fun for Doing so without a home during the new members house renovations proved to be a challenge, but our chapter did a great job finding ways to unite, around causes like our philanthropy and helped Caroline with Initationeach other’s successes. Chapter Philanthropy:What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community?Wooldrige Elementary, RIF, B+ Foundation (new this year)
Kelly BowmanThis year, House Chairman, served as Berkley Johnson (Philanthropy Chair) completely revamped and re-energized our philanthropic efforts. Kappa adopted another philanthropy in addition to Reading Is Fundamental. The B+ Foundation raises money for cancer research and pairs sororities and fraternities nationwide with a “Hero:” a liason between the in house girls, staffchild battling cancer. We were paired with our Hero, and Miss JudiMoriah. She helped organize is an eight-year-old girl with cancer, and clarify the house points system newest and youngest Beta Xi Kappa ever! She gets to wear our letters, come to some fun events, and selecting 60 members be a part of the chapter to live in the houseour Kappa family. She met Beta Xi embraced our newest sister with the staff love and Miss Judi pride. Kappas made visits to make sure her at the house was running smoothly hospital, had her over to our apartments, took her to Mozart’s Coffee Shop to see Christmas lights, made her a scrapbook and attended house board meetingsbattled her disease alongside her. Kelly provided gifts for the staff throughout the year. She also organized Sunday dinners And we are thrilled to report that her cancer is in remission! We hoped to be a light in Moriah’s life this year…but it turns out that Moriah remained a shining light for our chapter, uniting us in house girls that were provided from local Austin restaurantssome of our hardest seasons.
Sarah SnellingWe remained passionate about encouraging childhood reading, Treasureras well! From profit shares organized by chapter members to a book drive to our annual fundraiser, was in charge on handling we definitely did not let our passion for this issue fall by the chapters financeswayside. She worked extremely hard to make sure that We have a great relationship with Wooldridge Elementary where we have our annual RIF event every spring for the new Bill Highway system was working well and that members could understand how to use itwhole chapter. She was This year, Berkley added an event there in charge of the duesfall, budget for Chapter Councias well! Half the chapter volunteered at the elementary school on a Saturday, and any while the other charges that needed half gave their time to be made. She also worked to reinburse members and offiers and worked with favors to bill members through bill highwayNeighborhood Longhorns tutoring program.
Ksenia Kolesnikova, Panhellenic Delegate, served as the liason between Panhellenic and Beta Xi. She represented the chapter by voting for Panhellenic initatives. She also attended meetings each week and reported back to the Chapter about new policies set by Panhellenic.
This was a big year in the Nation's history. President Obama was reelected as President of the United States and Kappas gathered in the living room to watch the events unfold and watch the weekly debates between candidates. Many Kappas donated to the different campaigns and almost every Kappa participated in voting. Another big event in 2012 was the London Olympics. A few Beta Xi members actually attended events at the Olympics. Beta Xi members were involved in many different organizations worldwide from volunteering in South Africa to traveling to South America for mission work.
Campus: Beta Xi is very involved with While we await the opening of our newly renovated house on University of Texas. We try to promote members of Avenue, we have been renting rooms in the UT Union building for chapter to be involved in different organizations on campus. Many Kappas are members of honors societies such as the Dean's list or Order of Omega. A few Kappas participate in Student Government meetings and the Texas Athletic programfor our chapter lunches. There were It is usually a few changes that were made to our campus large meeting room with screens and dining space in 2012 such as adding new buildings, banning smoking on campus, and having the library open 24 hours a dayback.
Chapter: The Beta Xi Oral HistoryAre there any current members, alumnae or advisers from your chapter has many strengths and some weaknesses that we improved on in 2012. As a chapter we are extremely unified. Throughout all grades girls are friends and spend lots of time together. Every day you can see many girls across campus wearing Kappa shirts. recommend for the Fraternity’s oral history project? We are extremely proud looking for Kappas with stories to tell – funny chapter memories, great professional achievement stories, heartwarming stories of our Chapter and members are very dedicated to Beta Xi. We lacked in communication between the Chapter and Chapter Council and we worked very hard to fix that and now have clarity between the twohow Kappa has helped them, etc.
==Highlights of 2013==Kathryn Stouffer, current member, outgoing PR Chair Sarah Shaw, current member, outgoing House Chair Tricia Cury, former president and recent alum Chandler Foster, recent alumHannah Meehan, Beta Xi Chapter Council advisor
The newly elected officers were very excited to get into their positions for the 2013 calendar year. After completing triplicate meetings in December, the officers all felt that they were ready to continue the great leadership that was in place before them. Our first order ==Highlights of business as Chapter Council was to create a Google Drive for us to share. We were astounded by previous the chapter councils’ ability to work without the technology we have today. As a chapter, we communicate much of our information through emails, Google documents, and the Kappa website. We also employed the use of the Gin system to provide all our information to the entire chapter. Our improved use of technology allowed for clearer channels of communication between officers and the chapter as a whole.2017==
On November 1st we had Big/Little Reveal. Tatum Jolink planned something new and fun for the girls. We had a barge out on Lake Austin and the girls dressed up in a costume to match their bigs. It was so much fun and everyone enjoyed adding a new member to their Kappa family. On November 4th we had reverse pledging for the new members and started Inspiration Week. Throughout the week we had fun events planned for the new members leading up to Initiation. We had a House Buddy reveal party and many other fun things to celebrate their transition into official members of Kappa. On November 8-9 we had Initiation at the house. This year, 47 alums and over 200 actives took part in our best initiation yet. Both the actives and alumnae were eager to participate; all felt a strong sense of renewal afterward. Our white room was 18’ x 32’ larger than in years past due to the extensive efforts of the Marshal, her adviser and her committee. We added an extra Red Room along with 12 Runners and four Marshals to help run the Red Room process. Everyone participated and alumni from around the country came to initiate girls they know and love. After initiation on November 9th we had an Initiation brunch for all of the girls and their moms. On November 14-17 we had a Kappa trainer come visit our chapter. She taught us about risk management and the importance of Kappa’s reputation. It was extremely helpful for our chapter to have her help us improve. On November 19th we had a sisterhood event at the house. We all brought supplies and participated in a fun event that helped boost self-esteem and demonstrate our appreciation for one another. On November 21st we had our last event of the year, Kappa Cocktail. We had a great semi-formal at a local venue Buffalo Billiards. It was a great way to end a semester!
In December we finished up with our last meeting ==Highlights of the year and the old officers handed down their positions. We all participated in Triplicate meetings and were very excited to pass off our positions to a great new Chapter Council. 2018==
This has been a big year for the Beta Xi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Every year our chapter is expanding at a much faster rate than the previous year, and our chapter is learning to adjust to our new large numbers. Overall, the Greek system at the University of Texas is growing at an extremely rapid rate, and men and women across the country are realizing the value in joining a sorority or fraternity. As we grow, we are adding many new facets to the personality of our chapter. Reflecting on the nature of our chapter brings to mind a collection of different girls with different strengths, such as biology, guitar, or computer programming. Our chapter is very close due to our diversity. When studying or interacting with other students on campus it is always a proud moment to meet someone who has previously worked with a Kappa. We are all eager to represent Kappa on campus and we hold ourselves to the highest standards.
This The 2018-19 school year UT has experienced began with a new Beta Xi Chapter Council ready to work hard and continue the amazing work of the previous council. The new Chapter Council was comprised of many changesnew members, as well as some returning faces. Camille Szelc advanced from the role of Treasurer to President, and Jennifer Harbour took her place, moving up from Assistant Treasurer. Helen Williams took over the role as Assistant Treasurer, the only sophomore position on Chapter Council. Emma Riddle and Tessa Lauritzen returned to their respective positions of Philanthropy Chairman and Public Relations Chairman for the second year in a row. Carter Pittman was VP Standards, Charlotte Fitzpatrick was VP Organization,Peyton Travis was VPAE, Emily Parnell was Recording Secretary, Linda Castranova was Corresponding Secretary, Caroline Cannan was Membership Chairman, Cameron Crawford was New Member Chairman, Madison Rigby was Event Chairman, Cameron Shepherd was Registrar, Katie Bell was House Chairman, Lexie Alexander was Marshal, Sarah Boatwright was Risk Management Chairman, Kate Kaiser was Panhellenic Delegate, and Paige Nelson was Education Chair. As the year began, Camille (President) got the Chapter Council in order by determining a set time for weekly meetings. Our head coach She efficiently created an easy way for all Council members to communicate, set up a Google Drive folder for notes and forms, and reviewed the necessary expectations and responsibilities of Chapter Council officers. The Council discussed their personal and group goals for the football teamsemester, Mack Brownfocusing mostly on encouraging attendance and bolstering chapter morale throughout the year. To build a stronger community within the chapter, retired Carter (VP Standards) created a Kappa Kompliments box where members could leave encouraging notes to fellow Kappas to be read out at chapter. Cameron (Registrar) made sure Key Reports was in order and allowed access to the new officers. Jennifer (Treasurer) worked with the Chapter Council to set budgets for the 2018 spring semester and continued with billing of the chapter for the new semester. Linda (Corresponding Secretary) introduced her goal of moving everything over from coaching after the ListServe system to GinSystem and began the switch. Peyton (VPAE) started off the year by creating a consistent schedule of study snacks, available every Tuesday as a place for chapter members to take a mental break and grab a cookie or two. At the first chapter of the year, Camille (President) did a great job of welcoming everyone back and introduced transfers. The chapter voted on a new Standards Committee and AE Committee. To begin the process of recruitment, Caroline (Membership) sent out Area very successful tenure Rush Captain Applications to be due at UTthe end of the month. Sophomores are encouraged to apply to be an Area Rush Captain as a fun way to get more involved in recruitment and assist the rush team in the busy months to come. In early February, the first formal chapter of the year was held. Camille (President) and four other officers attended Ladder of Risk, a workshop designed to introduce the FIGP policy and build a community between fellow sorority and fraternity leaders. A new coach Emma (Philanthropy) began the application for GIRLS Academy, an opportunity for Kappa chapters to partner with and mentor young girls from Louisvillea local middle school. As a chapter, Beta Xi raised over $1, Charlie Strong000 for RIF at an event held by Outdoor Voices and was named one of the 20 highest donating KKG chapters. Charlotte (VPO) did a great job of placing chapter members into their respective committees, replaced himbased off of their requests and needs of the officers. It will Kate (Panhellenic Delegate) sought to build better relationships between the Beta Xi chapter and Panhellenic by encouraging members to apply to be a Rho Gam for the following year’s recruitment. Cameron (Registrar) planned “Rom Com of the Month” around Valentine’s Day, featuring a night with popcorn, candy, and cheesy movies. The Kappas joined Pi Beta Phi for Monmouth, a wonderful formal event held at The Belmont. Everyone had a blast at the Masqueradethemed party, spending the night dancing to the band, posing for photo booth pictures, or coming up with a crazy design to request from the face painters. Paige (Education) planned an interesting and informative program night about self-defense, focusing on what we can do as women if we are placed in a threatening situation. The past two years of rush teams met with Caroline (Membership) and her rush team at a triplicate meeting, allowing them to impart their advice and wisdom. Caroline (Membership) also began meeting with Panhellenic at bimonthly Recruitment Roundtables as a way to learn the rules and routines of recruitment and led her first rush workshop with PC’ 17. On the last chapter of February, Alumnae Relations Specialist for Theta District, Amy Sutton, visited to announce to the chapter that the Warning of Probation had been lifted. The month ended with a Ritual Workshop held by Lexie (Marshall) as a way to see his refresh the chapter’s memory of important Kappa history. March came and went quickly with the nice week of Spring Break to give everyone a break from school. Emma (Philanthropy) invited the founders of the B+ Foundation to come speakto the chapter. They educated the chapter about their mission and main goals, while also introducing their Roundup fundraising campaign. Peyton (VPAE) held a wonderful Professor Dinner at the Kappa house, giving the members of our chapter a chance to get to know their esteemed professors in a more intimate setting. She designed coffee cups as a party favor so that each professor would remember the hospitality displayed by each girl. Before Spring Break, the Not On My Campus committee gave a brief but informative presentation on staying safe and watching out for your sisters during the break. The next week, Kappas set off all over the country, exploring new places, relaxing at home, or visiting friends studying abroad in foreign countries. After Spring Break, the chapter nominated Avery Campbell as the new Nominating Committee Chair Representative. Emma (Philanthropy) also joined forces with Pi Phi to throw Kappa Pi Phi Karnival. The event was held in the front yard of the Pi Phi house with cotton candy, face paint, and even a mechanical bull! Chapter members sold wristbands to their friends, encouraging them to stop by as a kickoff party for Roundup Weekend. Tessa (PR) invited alumni and friends to the house that Sunday for a fun Easter party. Alumni were welcome to bring their children for a fun afternoon of cookie decorating and egg hunting. Cameron (New Member) began discussing Bid Day with Chapter Council, throwing around ideas and asking for the opinions of the chapter. Madison (Event) planned a completely new event, naming the party “Kappa Krush”. Chapter members secretly invited dates for their friends, but the girls did not find out until their date found them wearing their tie at the party! Everyone was excited to try something new, and the event held Vulcan was a huge success . April was another busy month for the Beta Xi chapter as the school year began wrapping up. Camille (President) and Kate (Panhellenic Delegate) presented the new Diversity and Inclusion Statement written by Panhellenic to the chapter and encouraged members to apply for the new Diversity and Inclusion committee. Katie (House) sent out new room assignments to the sophomores eagerly awaiting their year living in the house. To continue boosting morale, Carter (VP Standards) and the standards committee planned a night at the baseball park for fun sisterhood event in early April. The Kappas took over the stands, eating hot dogs and cheering on the UT over baseball team as they took on the Baylor Bears. Peyton (VPAE) recognized girls in the chapter who received a 4.0 in the fall and also announced that the chapter had moved up in the UPC GPA rankings to the 7th position! The new members advanced even higher, ranking 3rd. Chapter members visited Wooldridge Elementary for their biannual Reading is Key event, engaging the next students through basketball, bracelet making, and of course, dance parties! Each student got to leave with a few yearsbooks donated by the members of our chapter. Cameron (Registrar) planned this month’s “Rom Com of the Month” around The Bachelor, having a fun night of snacks and gossip as chapter members gathered together to watch the finale. Caroline (Membership) held two recruitment workshops this month, re-familiarizing the entire chapter with the songs, chants, and strategies soon to be used. The recruitment team spent endless amounts of time meeting with the ARCs and taking on their respective roles to prepare for the summer months. They did a great job of introducing new changes and getting the chapter excited about a new season of recruitment! Paige (Education) planned a final wrap up event for the seniors at Painting With a Twist. The seniors got to visit a studio to recreate their own painting to take home, and they had a blast! Madison (Event) was busy this month, planning both the last date event of the year, Kite and Key, with Kappa Alpha Theta and Parent’s Weekend. The date event featured a fun band Cedar Street Courtyard. Instead of doing separate Mom’s and Dad’s weekends, Madison combined the two into one big Parent’s Weekend at the end of April. On Friday, chapter members attended a joint shopping event and Happy Hour between Adelante and Santa Rita. To show off the new house, Kappa hosted a brunch for all parents before the UT Board baseball game. Towards the end of the month, the chapter welcomed back Casey, a Kappa Leadership Consultant. Each Chapter Council officer met with Casey to get advice and set goals for the next semester. Charlotte (VPO) did a great job in planning activities for Casey to introduce her to more of Austin. As a whole, the chapter was so grateful that Casey was able to make time to come back and visit again. The school year came to an end in May as Kappas began making their summer plans. Paige (Education) brought back the tradition of Chapter Awards, much to the surprise and excitement of the chapter. Outstanding Freshman went to Gigi Hanna, Outstanding Sophomore went to Risk Management Chair Sarah Boatwright, Outstanding Junior went to Peyton Bertram, and Outstanding Senior went to Hannah Love. Hannah was also presented the Eleanor Niggli-Tyler Award for outstanding contributions to Beta Xi Chapter Kappa Kappa Gamma. Kristen Graham won Lillian Lurker, a comedic award presented to a house girl who spent hours in the Lillian, our beloved living room. For outstanding contribution to the University of Regents has been eventful Texas and Kappa Kappa Gamma, senior Riley Longtain received the Braun-Maynard Award. Last, Sally Cisarik won the Heather Lynn Dealy Award, nicknamed the “Sunshine Award”. Paige (Education) also planned Senior Sendoff to honor those leaving us. Each senior received a small present from the chapter and announced their future plans. Jennifer (Treasurer) explained payment plans to the chapter, as she would begin billing for the Fall semester in August. During the summer months, Beta Xi Kappas set off to do wonderful things all over the world. Several members studied abroad, becoming familiar with the lifestyles in Spain, Italy, Croatia, and more. Older Kappas began internships and summer jobs, hoping to follow—with some gain experience and make connections. Other members disagreeing Bill Powersentered summer school or attended summer camps. To keep in touch, Tessa (PR) kept up the chapter’s various social media accounts, gathering pictures from everyone’s exciting summer experiences. Camille (President) and Emily (Corresponding Secretary) took off to Denver to attend the Kappa Convention. They had an incredible time getting to know Kappa chapters from all over the country and developing stronger relations with the advisors who attended as well. Beta Xi was lucky enough to win the advisory board of the year award for the chapter connections with the president advisors. The most notable part of their trip was the presentation by Lawrence Ross, who came to UTthis past Fall as well to discuss race relations in Sororities and Fraternities. Caroline (Recruitment) and her rush team stayed busy reviewing letters of recommendation, planning out the fun days of work week, and creating a strategy to use in the upcoming weeks. Chapter members moved back to Austin in early August to participate in a week of preparing for recruitment. Caroline (Recruitment) and her team even surprised the chapter with a swimming barge as a way to cool off in the hot summer heat. A great work week led into an even better recruitment week. Beta Xi was proud to show off the their unique personalities, and on Bid Day, we welcomed 68 amazing new girls into our chapter! The festivities planned by Cameron (New Member) included dinner at Matt’s El Rancho, a dance party, and a sleepover at the house for all new members. The girls loved getting to know their future sisters in a more intimate setting. The school year started up again in September. Kappas welcomed the fall semester with open arms, entering new classes and cheering on the Longhorns football team. Chapter Council gathered together again on Sundays to communicate their semester goals and plan for how to achieve them. After an orientation put on by Katie (House), PC’ 16 moved into the house, enjoying the comfort of living so close to campus. The City New Members eagerly explored their new home, eating meals together, studying in the basement, and showing off the house to their friends during guest lunches. They attended a New Member Orientation put on by Panhellenic to learn all of the policies and responsibilities expected of newmembers. Within Kappa,Cameron (Registrar) and Linda (Corresponding Secretary) worked with Cameron (New Member) to gather all of Austin has the New Member information to input them into the various systems. Linda (Corresponding Secretary) also been growing at gave a very fast rate presentation on Ginsystem as the chapter officially moved over from ListServe. Carter (Standards) elected a new member to the Standards committee to replace the senior who graduated in May. Once again, Charlotte (VPO) worked on organizing committees in time for the past few yearsfirst committee night. There are many new buildings added Peyton (VPAE) proudly announced that our chapter moved from 8th place to 4th place out of 14 sororities in the UPC GPA rankings with an average GPA of 3.5581. Cameron (New Member) began the skyline New Member meetings before chapter each year week to educate the New Members on various aspects of Kappa, introduce them to the Chapter Council officers, and Austin is becoming answer any questions they had. The Kappas attended their first date event in late September, a destination fun, ranch style joint date event with Tri Delta. Our chapter was approved for people GIRLS Academy, so Emma (Philanthropy) began working on those details. Tessa (PR) gathered pictures and stories from the summer to publish the summer newsletter. As October came around , energy in the worldhouse was at an all time high with the excitement of Halloween, the Texas-OU game, and our date event with Chi Omega. The month began with chapter composites planned by Cameron (Registrar). Avery Steen worked closely to pair the sophomores and New Members for Key Sis dates, giving the newer members a chance to spend time with their older sisters. Emma (Philanthropy) scheduled a bat tour for girls in the chapter to spend time with Moriah, our B+ Hero. In preparation for the big game in Dallas, Sarah (Risk Management) worked with the NOMC leaders to give a helpful presentation on the risks of party weekends and how to stay safe. She also organized a list of girls going to the game by fraternity so that all Kappas knew who to turn to if they needed help. On Friday, Kappas loaded up buses and cars to head to the Red River Rivalry. After a nerve-wracking game, the Longhorns came out on top with a 48-45 win. To celebrate Halloween, Madison (Event) planned our annual Owl-o-ween with Chi O. From Ghostbusters to movie stars, everyone enjoyed dressing up with their date. Tessa (PR) hosted a Halloween party at the house for alumni and their children. In-house girls participated by handing out candy in a mock trick-or-treat activity. Towards the end of the month, Kappas went back to Wooldridge Elementary to host their fall Reading is Key event. OverallEveryone loved seeing the children again, and we even saw some returning faces! The month culminated with a sisterhood hangout with Kappa is adapting Delta. Kate (Panhellenic) invited the KDs into our house to build ice cream sundaes and socialize. November kicked off with a fun-filled Parent’s Weekend, featuring a great brunch at the house before a big football game against West Virginia. The following week was an amazing Inspiration Week planned by Lexie (Marshal). Casey the Leadership Consultant returned that week to act as a guide and mentor through all of the Initiation rituals. Chapter Council was so fortunate to have someone who knew our chapter so well to UT be there during this special week. The week began with Big-Little reveal as the new members were welcomed into their new families, dressing up and Austin’s development eating Amy’s ice cream. On Friday, Fireside was held at the house. After bonding all night, the new members were finally initiated early Saturday morning. To celebrate, Cameron (New Member) planned a wonderful brunch for the new actives and growth their families. The weekend culminated with easeFounder’s Day, a special event held each year to embrace our Kappa history and celebrate our esteemed alumni. This year, Paige (Education) planned Founder’s Day at the Kappa House as a way to show off our beautiful home and make the event more intimate. Kappa also participated in Greek Get Down, a dance competition put on by AEPhi to raise money for their philanthropy. Peyton (VPAE) held another Professor Dinner, giving the new actives a chance to talk to the people who led their classes each day. On the last Thursday in November, Kappas attended Kappa Klassic, a semi-formal held at Summit. Everyone had a blast, and Kappa commends Madison (Event) for the wonderful job she did planning events all year. The Slate committee worked endless hours, pouring over Chapter Council applications and debating who would be the next leaders of Kappa. After long nights, they presented their nominations to the chapter, which were warmly received. Kappa thanks Slate for the wonderful job they did, and we are all very excited for the new Chapter Council to lead us into next year. As the year came to a close, December was an important time for transitioning. New Chapter Council members met with those who held their positions currently to see learn the ins and outs of each job. As a wrap-up and official transition day, Charlotte (VPO) planned the Leadership brunch at the house. Old and new Chapter Council members gathered with their advisors to celebrate everything that has been accomplished in the past year and discuss goals for the semester to come. Chapter Council members also attended the State of Panhellenic dinner to present what happens Kappa achieved in the years last year. As a treat, Carter (VP Standards) and the Standards committee replaced the last chapter with a sisterhood party. The house transformed into a Winter Wonderland as chapter members took a break from studying to comeenjoy free massages, cookie decorating, and a chocolate fountain. Overall, 2018 was a remarkable year for Kappa as we transitioned off of a Warning of Probation, introduced a wonderful new pledge class, and grew stronger together.We are very fortunate to have had such an exciting year, and we anticipate that 2019 will be even better!
==Highlights Our chapter has been raising money and gathering books for RIF over the last few years.We partner with Wooldridge Elementary to host a RIF event there twice a year, invitingstudents from the school to come play games,eat snacks,and get their faces painted.Each child leaves with books donated by our members. Throughout the year,chapter membersvolunteer as mentors for some of 2014==the students at the school. We received our B+ Hero,Moriah,a few years ago,along with many other sororities and fraternities on campus.Moriah has become part of the sisterhood, and she is well loved by everyone in the chapter.We spend lots of time taking her and her friends to participate in things around Austin as wellas hosting them to the house to paint,sing,or play hide-and-go-seek. Throughout the year,wealso raise money for the B+ Foundation through fundraising campaigns. As Moriah grows older,we are so lucky to have had the chance to get to know her and her family.
Upon electing Our chapter meets every Monday at 6 pm in what we call the new officers for 2014, the new and old Chapter Council wasted no time "Great Room" in preparing for the year aheadhouse. After completing triplet meetings in DecemberAt 5pm, the officers all felt that they were ready we offer chapter dinner to continue the great leadership that was in place before thementire chapter. Our first two orders of business were As dinner comes to get everyone up to speed on an end,our HouseBoys assist us in moving the Kappa Google Drive, tables and chairs from a dining room setting to create more of a 2014 Leadership Action planpresentation-style setting. Chapter Council completed these two items with outstanding efficiency and thoroughness, which set all the new officers up for a very successful year!
In JanuaryEvery year, all the new officers had a great beginning we have multiple girls from our chapter apply to the new yearride for Texas 4000. Willa Jolink (President) spent much Texas4000 is a non-profit organization that hosts one of her time organizing and leading Chapter Council and Chapter meetings every Sunday and Mondaythe longest bicycle rides in theworld. Her organizational skills The Kappas who apply and heart are accepted raise thousands of dollars, training all year for Kappa helped everything run smoothly in the first month of her officetheir ride from Austin to Alaska. The Our chapter also welcomed two new transfers from Texas Tech and Alabamaassists these members by postingon social media, which Willa Jolink (President)selling t-shirts, Tatum Jolink (VP Standards) and Leigh Robinson (Registrar) helped usher inhelping raise money. Tatum Jolink organized the first Sisterhood event Not only are we incrediblyproud of the semester, bowling at the underground alley our girls who take on campusthis task, which was a huge success! Becca Johnson (VPAE) we also implemented a new system of gauging the academic success of the new members, which ultimately led to one of commend our best overall GPAs yet! Madalyn Brim (Membership) organized a successful first Rush Workshop to prepare chapter for recruitment in the fall outpouringlove and began the process of preparing for a new pledge class! Meghan Lowenfield (Chapter Education) treated the Chapter to a Zumba Workout during the first program nightsupport they provide. Overall, the 2014 year was off to a great start!Summer 2018 Riders:PeytonBertramandLindaCastranova;Summer 2019 Riders:JulieDeLaRosa
In February, the new officers began to get the hang of their positions and began brainstorming ways to make this the best year of Beta Xi yet! Becca Johnson (VPAE) received the grade reports from the Fall 2013 semester and was pleased to see that we had raised our GPA significantly above the all sorority average and was ranked 6th overall! The chapter celebrated with a cake and Kappachino party that Julie Parma (House Chairman) and Miss Judi put on! Leigh Robinson (Registrar) also held the first RomCom of the Month on the week of Valentines Day, and partnered with Meghan McGowan (Philanthropy) to hold Kisses from Kappa, an event where the chapter writes Valentines to hospitalized children. It was a huge success, with the biggest turnout that both events have ever seen. Tricia Curry (Marshal) also held a Ritual Workshop to teach the entire chapter the Kappa rituals. This was extremely helpful to the new members especially. Last, Kappa had their first formal of the semester, Monmouth, with the PiPhis in late February. It was at a new venue on 6th street, and all the girls had a fun time with their dates thanks to a lot of planning from Mimi Richardson (Events Chairman) and Sam Stavinhoa (Risk Management).
March was a big month for the Beta Xi Kappas. Julie Parma (House Chairman) began the month by analyzing House Points and assigning roommates in the house for the 2014-2015 school year. She also revamped the Lillian, a lounge on the second floor that had begun to look outdated. With the House Board’s help, the new Lillian is now a favorite hangout spot for the girls in the house! Beta Xi also had House Mother Appreciation week, where the girls honored Miss Judi and all the amazing work she does for our chapter. Peyton Bivins (VPO) also worked hard on preparing the chapter for the Leadership Consultant to visit in late March. The LC helped us so much, and we were so happy to get to gain wisdom from an older, wiser Kappa! Becca Johnson (VPAE) also went above and beyond by compiling a “Majors List”, a new resource for Kappas to find others who share the same major. Becca also planning a Registration Party, with older Kappas helping younger girls navigate the perils of registering for classes. Barbara Gass (Corresponding Secretary) took a lot of time in March to inventory and label all the resources in the basement, making it much easier for the chapter to access. Meghan Lowenfield (Fraternity Education) also organized two fun events for the chapter: a senior yoga class and a Keys Overseas presentation! Both made meetings interesting and fun! In the end of March, the girls went on Spring Break, many going on trips with other Kappas. The Kappas traveled all over the world and took advantage of a whole week off from school! Upon returning back, Beta Xi held our biggest philanthropy event during Round Up, Fajita Fiesta, with PiPhi! This was the first year to do this, and Meghan McGowan’s (Philanthropy) hard work on it paid off!
In April, Beta Xi did not slow down one bit in preparing for the end ==Highlights of the semester. Mimi Richardson (Social) worked with Theta to plan Kite and Key, a beloved date party with the Thetas. Sam Stavinhoa (Risk Management) did a ton of work with the bus policy for this event, and spent many hours contacting the bus company and thinking of new, innovative ways to take roll on the buses. Additionally, Mimi Richardson helped plan fun Mom's and Dad's Weekends in April. The chapter loved getting to hang out with each other families in group dinners and events. Alex Collins (Panhellenic Delegate) helped run Greek Grub, an awareness event that helps Greeks meet each other on campus. She also organized a profit share with our sister sorority, AEPhi, at Red Mango. The turnout was great, and all the proceeds went to One Million for Anna, a charity that Meghan McGowan (Philanthropy) has developed a relationship with. Michelle Nash (Public Relations) threw the annual Easter Party, one the of the chapter’s favorite opportunities to meet alumni! Michelle put on an incredible party with Easter egg hunts and even the Easter Bunny made an appearance. Julie Parma (House Chairman) also assigned parking spots in the Kappa lot based on preference forms for the 2014-2015 school year. 2019==
May signaled Several members of Kappa are a slow down part of the peer buddy in Kappa events as finals approached and the semester came to Best Buddies. They ar epaired with an adult with an end. Meghan Lowenfield (Education Chairman) conducted Senior Sendoff, a fun event after Chapter where we recognize the seniors intellectual disability and hear funny memories from he’s their "buddy"at KKGall the events for the rest of the school year. Leigh Robinson (Registrar) also worked hard It is a great way for our members to stay involved in obtaining all the graduating seniors’ contact information and put them on alum status community as well as make an impact in Key Reportssomeone's life. Tatum Jolink (VP Standards) also helped I would say that all our members involved in getting the seniors to comply with the Senior Agreement, and she believes that the seniors were Best Buddies have learned more aware of from the requirements program than in years pastthey expected. Maggie Hood (Treasurer) worked hard Our members are also involved in setting up the budget for the next school yearour philanthropy,Reading is Fundamental. She met There is an event at Wooldridge Elementary School where members go hang out with all the officers individually and looked children at past bills to determine the correct amount to allocate to each of the officer accountsschool, paint their faces, make bracelets, draw pictures, play basketball and everyone's favorite, play musical chairs. Maggie Hood There are also other events we are involved in such as an online fundraiser for B+ Foundation, Girls Academy (Treasurer)middle school girls retreat on leadership, service, Willa Jolink (President) and Tatum Jolink (VP Standardsrespect) also worked hard , book drives, participated in Phi Psi Stuff the Truck, DG Desserts, Alpha Phi's Mac N' Phis, Pi Phi's Pi Burger's & Phries, ADPi's PiHop, won SDT EAT your way around competition, Kappa Pi Phi carnival, fundraising for Texas4000, donated menstrual products to ensure that all accounts were cleared and everything was organized and squared away nicely for the chapterPERIOD. Catherine Anne Prideaux (New Member) and Madalyn Brim (Membership) both worked hard Each of our members are dedicated to prepare for the recruitment their success and have achieved incredible things while at the new University of Texas. One of our members coming in August! Catherine Anne finalized Bid Day plans and worked closely with Caroline Wallace (Favors Chairman) to design fun t-shirts and gear was awarded a $1500 grant for thesis research, she is the new girls to wear. Madalyn held co-president of Plan II student association, was also awarded the last recruitment workshop AJ and began planning Lynda Hare Scribante Scholarship for the summer. Lastly$3000, Mimi Richardson (Social Chairman) and Sam Stavinhoa (Risk Management) planned is a fun End of the Year Party on counselor for Dell Medical Summer Science Camp. We have a barge lot going on Lake Travis for the Kappas! It was a huge hit but we are all there to support each other and a great end to the school year!help out when someone could use another hand.
Over Our members are involved in certain programs and clubs on campus and a majority hold officer positions in those organizations. A few of the summerthings they have worked to accomplish include improved transition for freshman Plan II students by creating new activities and opportunities for involvement, the Kappas parted ways contributed to do internshipsenrichment and closeness of Greek community, study abroaddonated 300 books to Wooldridge Elementary, hang out at home or take classes in Austin. All the girlsand provided support, especially the officerseducation, kept up a strong line of communication and continued leadership to uphold the Kappa name all around the worldWooldridge students, B+ hero, and summer camp kids. Five members of Chapter Council attended Convention over We support Reading is Fundamental, Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation We chose RIF because it is our national philanthropy and we want to participate in the summer with all core values of the Kappa chapters in our regionKappa Gamma. The girls gained a lot of great tips in how to better run Hosting RIF events and book drives connects us with our sisters within the chapter! Madalyn Brim (Membership) and throughout the rest of Recruitment Team stayed in Austin over the summer, and attended parties and events where they could meet some of the girls who would be going through recruitment in Augustnation. The team did a ton of hard work for the rest of We chose the chapter, but also had B+ Foundation because it is a ton of fun local philanthropy that we can participate in Austin! However, in August everyone was ready to get back to with other sororities and fraternities on the Kappa house for another fun year University of Recruitment, new members, date parties, meetings, and sisterhood eventsTexas campus.
In August, Madalyn Brim’s officer position kicked into high gear when she led an extremely successful Spirit Week and Recruitment Week. All of the chapter’s hard work paid off when 78 new Kappas ran to the house on Bid Day! Everyone was so pleased with the girls we had gotten, and Catherine Anne Prideaux (New Member Chairman) was ready to begin integrating the New Members into the chapter!
September marked the first week ==Highlights of school and the first football game. This year, long time football coach, Mack Brown, left the University and Coach Charlie Strong was hired as the new Longhorns head football coach! This football season looked promising for the Longhorns, and the Kappas were excited to begin attending football games again. At Beta Xi, September was a very busy month. Unfortunately, Bid Night behavior posed some challenges that Chapter Council had to discuss how to move forward with this yearly celebration of the new members. Willa Jolink (President) led these discussions and worked as the communication between the House Board and Chapter Council. The Kappas handled this situation very well and implemented extra service events and programs to put our chapter back in good standing. We are very proud of the progress we have made! Also in September, the New Members had their retreat at the KKG house, where they played games and bonded at a pledge class. Peyton Bivins (VPO) diligently constructed the calendar for the upcoming semester and implemented a new system for Committee Night. Now, all officers have a committee and the girls have a bigger hand in choosing a committee for the semester. Becca Johnson (VPAE) also made a fun new game out of Smarty Pants, which puts the 4 grades into competition to see who can get the most As. Overall, September was a busy and challenging semester, but very rewarding overall!2020==
In October, Beta Xi was brought the news that the house would officially be undergoing chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma had a major renovation in the 2014-2015 school great year! The girls Multiple members were all very excited about awarded KKG foundation academic scholarships. Ashley Duester (PC ’17) was awarded the prospect UT Sorority and Fraternity Life Office Outstanding Member of 2020 award. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we were lucky enough host a new sisterhood basketball game in February and improved housethe Monmouth date event on March 2nd, but many challenges did arise in terms of housing everyone 2020. After life started to change, sisterhood events began to look more socially distant. On November 10th, 2020 we held a sisterhood ice cream event at Zilker Park and a hot chocolate event in the chapter key garden during the year that the house cannot be usedfinals week in December. House Board and Chapter Council worked together We continued to form stay philanthropically involved by hosting a relationship with 2400 Nueces chapter drive-in donation to get a block EJI in Spring 2020. Because of rooms for the Kappaspandemic, find a house we created operation plans for Miss Judi and locate potential new meeting and recruitment spaces. Overall, the strong team mindset managing chapter facilities in Kappa made these challenges easy to overcome. Beta Xi also had another visit from the LC, Rileymidst of COVID-19. Peyton Bivins (VPO) ensured she had We conducted a wonderful stay virtual work week, recruitment, and the chapter benefitted from the news ideas that the LC had to bringbid day. Meghan Lowenfield (Fraternity Education) planned All new member meetings, formal and implemented Founders Dayreverse pledging ceremonies, a time to celebrate and commemorate the founding and history of Kappa. The tradition is beloved by the Kappas. On October 25th, Tricia Curry formal chapter meetings were held virtually through zoom (Marshal) officially initiated all 78 informal chapter meetings consisted of the pledges in a beautifully run ceremony. Tricia organized everything with ease and PowerPoint made it by the most efficient Initiation Ceremony in the past years. Initiation marks the end of an 8-week education process members of chapter council and sent out to the new membersentire chapter). Michelle Nash (PR) held another successful holiday eventFurther, the annual Halloween Party at the Houseinitiation was completely virtual and combined into one ceremony. Mimi Richardson (Events Chairman) and Sam Stavinhoa (Risk Management) worked hard to plan and throw Kappa Kidnap and OwlOween on two back-to-back weekends, which were both fun ways to end the month of October!
November marked continued efforts to organize and communicate updates from House Board about the new upcoming renovation. Willa Jolink (President) and Julie Parma (House Chairman) worked for a very long time to make sure this process ran smoothly. Leigh Robinson (Registrar) coordinated the Composite pictures and signed a contract The Chapter celebrated Founders Day with a different Composite company for brunch at the next school yearBeta Xi KKG House. She hopes Kappa Alumni were invited to save money come celebrate the exciting day and increase composite quality share with this switch! Tatum Jolink (VP Standards) Meghan McGowan (Philanthropy) and Alex Collins (Panhellenic Delegate) worked together to organize a Sisterhood event. At each other the event, girls decorated Thanksgiving cookies with power of Kappa Delta and wrote holiday cards to Dell Children’s Hospitalwomen. Mimi Richardson (Events Chairman) planned Parents Weekend and There was a speaker who presented a little bit about Kappa Cocktail. Kendall Sealy (Recording Secretary) worked with all the officers to revise the Bylaws and Standing Rules for the next officers. Then in mid November, Beta Xi began officer transitions, led by Peyton Bivins (VPO). Julie Parma (House and Slate Chairman) history of it and the Slate Committee everyone had elected new girls to serve on Chapter Council, and the groups began working together to transition all positions over smoothlya great time in each others company. The 2014 Chapter Council is extremely excited to see what the new Chapter Council will do in 2015!
In December, the semester The chapter began to come to a close, celebrate Kappa’s 150th anniversary with only one week in between Thanksgiving Founders Day. Customized cups and Christmas breaks napkins were made for some. The girls worked really hard to get their schoolwork done and finish with great GPAs. Slowly but surely, girls began to move out the guests of Founders Day as well as for the house active members to return home for use throughout the winter break and holiday season. Overall, 2014 has been an incredible year for Beta Xi, and we could not be happier with the challenges we have overcome and the changes we have implemented.
Campus: Recent changes on For our campus have made it increasingly important to be technologically savvy. With the influx of media philanthropy we support B+ Foundation, Reading is Fundamental, and technology that has come about various COVID relief organizations: Fuel Our Heroes, Communities in the past couple years, students must utilize these avenues to be successful at the University Schools of Central Texas, Boys and Girls Club. RIF is our Kappa affiliate philanthropy and B+ supports children battling cancer. In other newsAs for COVID relief participation, in 2014 we hired a new football coach, Charlie Strong. The students has have begun to call themselves "Stronghorns" felt that the pandemic was one of the greatest crisis of our lifetime and all have made an incredible effort we needed to stand behind and support this new football erahelp in any way possible. We are hoping for some big football wins in 2015!
Chapter: The nature of our chapter is something that we are most proud of . We are known as campus as being friendlyfund raised for the Equal Justice Initiative, welcoming and bright. We still maintain started a highly admired reputation among both Greeks and non Greekssummer anti-racism book club, and we wear the Kappa name with pride. Our biggest accomplishment this year was overcoming some disciplinary issues with alcohol in the house. It was established a long road to work with the House Board, advisors, Diversity and Miss Judi to enforce the rules surrounding this. We began doing room sweeps Inclusion position of the House to ensure than no one was keeping alcohol against the rules. We are happy to say that the chapter has been properly educated on this rule council and all the girls have completely supported our Standards Chair committee for recruitment. All Diversity and President in this challenge, Inclusion positions and our chapter is now stronger a wholecommittees were made permanent.
We hold chapter meetings in the large downstairs living room To celebrate 150 years of Kappa, our education chair made gift packages and sent them to all of the KKG House on University Drivealumnae being honored. We normally move the furniture In these gift packs were personalized Yeti cups and bring in chairs to ensure that everyone has a comfortable place to sit. The chapter owns our House, which maintains a Historical Landmark status in Texasnotes.
We have had Here is a link to our red brick house on University for decades nowInstagram that was run by our PR chair. The girls have the opportunity to live in the House both their junior It features pictures posted following public health guidelines and senior years, if they choose. The House has 60 spots, and the House Chairman generally fills them with half junior and half seniors, based on House Points that can be earned throughout the school year. In our history, how we have had one other chapter owned house, which was formerly on handled the corner social media aspect of 24th of Rio Grande, the current site of a gas stationpandemic. The chapter is looking forward to a massive renovation of our house in 2015 and 2016, a 15 month project to update it and revamp ithttps://www. This will cause member s to not be able to live in the house in the 2015-2016 school yearinstagram.com/texaskkg/?hl=en
==Highlights of 2015==
2015 was a big year of change and growth for Beta Xi. In January, the new Beta Xi Chapter Council was eager to continue the legacy of great leadership that was put in place the previous year. Tricia Curry was President, Annie Whitehead was VP Standards, Sam Stavinoha was VP Organization, Catherine Anne Prideaux was VPAE, Morgan Bridges was Recording Secretary, Sarah Branch was Corresponding Secretary, Rachel Theilmann was membership chairman, Annie Bernica was New Member Chairman, Elise Roth was Treasurer, Sarah Cordill was Philanthropy Chairman, Meredith Nagel was Event Chairman, Michelle Nash was Registrar, Katie Sears was House Chairman, Avery Travis was Marshal, Sophie Worrell was Risk Management Chairman, Grace Anne McGinnis was Panhellenic Delegate, Kathryn Stouffer was PR Chair, and Anna Wittenmyer was Education Chair.
Tricia Curry (President) kicked off the year by efficiently planning and leading CC meetings. The first few orders ==Highlights of business were finalizing edits on the chapter bylaws and standing rules, getting officers up to speed on the Kappa drive and webinars, and reviewing the basic expectations and responsibilities of Chapter Council members. Sam Stavinoha (VP Organization) went over our strategic plan and goals for the Chapter Council, which included increasing chapter unity, transparency and understanding of ritual, revamping philanthropy, and encouraging proactivity. Annie Whitehead (VP Standards) went over her new plan for implementing positive probation. Kathryn Stouffer (Public Relations Chairman) led a GIN presentation to get members acquainted with the new system, and published another great issue of “Round Up”, the annual Kappa newsletter. Under new leadership, the first few chapter meetings of the new year were completed with outstanding efficiency and thoroughness, and set the pace for a very successful year ahead.2021==
In February, the officers were beginning to get the hang of their new responsibilities on Chapter Council and the semester began to pick up speed. Meredith Nagel (Event Chairman) planned another awesome Dad’s weekend with a barbeque dinner at Ironworks, a joint event at the Rattle Inn with the Texas Cowboys, and more. She and Sophie Worrell (Risk Management) also pulled off another great Monmouth formal with the Pi Phis at the Downtown Austin Hyatt, and everyone had a wonderful time with their dates. Rachel Theilmann (Membership Chairman) held a very successful first recruitment workshop with the freshman, teaching them the inns and outs of rush and the importance of spring semester for recruiting. Chapter Council also attended Province in late February and learned a lot of great tips from other chapters on how to run the chapter more efficiently and effectively.
March was another busy month for In 2021, the Beta Xi chapter continued to thrive despite the complex environment of the evolving pandemic, and the spring semester chapter was in full swing. Avery Travis (Marshal) led a successful ritual workshop that was an extremely helpful refresher place of refuge for its members. In the entire early spring, chapter. Catherine Anne Prideaux (VPAE) received members stayed connected through virtual chapters and outdoor sisterhood events including a coffee bar in the fall grades KKG courtyard and found that a profit share with a delicious ice cream sandwich truck to raise money for our philanthropies. Later in the semester, the chapter GPA had risen since last semester its first semi-formal in over a year. The event was split up by grade level and members and there their dates were also 30 girls with COVID tested prior to the event. 87 members had 4.0’s from 0s in the fall! Rachel held another great Rush Workshop with both freshman spring semester, and sophomores to begin preparing the chapter raised thousands of dollars for recruitment philanthropies including RIF, B+, Allies Against Slavery, and began developing a strategy with area assistantsNational Coalition against human trafficking. Sam Stavinoha (VPO) worked hard to plan In the summer, Recruitment week was an exciting time for the leadership consultant’s upcoming visit in Aprilchapter. On program night It was the first time the entire chapter heard very valuable career advice from Lori MacNeil from Career Onwardwas able to be together since early 2020, and new bonds were formed while old bonds were strengthened. Lori talked about In the importance of resumesfall, LinkedIn accounts, and overall social media identity. The chapter was very receptive to her talk events and learned a lot about professionalism. Sarah Cordill (Philanthropy Chair) planned another successful fundraiser with Pi Phi during round upmeetings were once again in-person. The event, called return of Kappa/Pi Phi Carnival, lunch was our biggest philanthropy event of welcomed by the year and actives and guests attended with a petting zoochapter, face painter, snow cones, and more. Hudson Moore performed as members were once again able to spend time together eating and studying at the event raised around 1000 dollars for our philanthropy. It was so much fun and a huge successKappa house.
April was another great month for Beta Xi. Kathryn Stouffer (PR) planned the annual Easter party for alumnae and their children. The event was held at the house and featured an Easter egg hunt, face painting, and the Easter bunny made an appearance per usual. The event was a blast for all who attended! Meredith Nagel (Event Chairman) and Sophie Worrel (Risk Management) planned another successful event with Theta- Kite & Key. The event was held at a venue downtown and everyone had a wonderful time with dates and Theta friends. Mom’s weekend was also a blast and the Kappas enjoyed a chapter-wide dinner at the Driskill with their mothers. Meetings were running smoothly and Carolyn Simpson came and spoke to the chapter about recruitment and Kappa nationals. This talk was very informative for the entire chapter, and helped shed light on how Kappa functions as an organization nationally beyond just the level of our chapter. Our leadership consultant, Alex Von Springer also visited in April and gave a very helpful presentation to the chapter at the end of her visit with some tips and advice on how we could improve. We also held a ring ceremony at an April meeting for one of our seniors, Becca Oertli, who got engaged. Sarah Cordill held a successful RIF event at Wooldridge Elementary. The entire chapter came together and set up stations at the school to interact with the kids. Stations included sports, reading, card decorating and face painting. This event was looked forward to very much by both our chapter and the kids, and was a huge success as usual. At the end of the month, Chapter Council got news that due to unforeseen complications, our house renovations would now be delayed until November of 2015. Though this meant we would be able to hold recruitment at the house, this presented new challenges to chapter council and the members affected. A member of house board came to answer questions and help sort out the issues.
May signaled a slow down in Kappa events as finals approached and Chapter PhilanthropyIn the semester came to an end. Anna Wittenmyer (Education Chairman) conducted Senior Sendoffspring, a fun event after the Beta Xi chapter where we recognize raised money to help Austin’s homeless during the seniors winter storms and hear funny memories from years pastraised $20,000 for two organizations that combat human trafficking. Michelle Nash (Registrar) also obtained all of Throughout the graduating seniors’ contact information and put them on alum status in Key Reports. Elise Roth (Treasurer) worked hard to set up year, our chapter supported the budget for B+ Foundation, which supports the upcoming school yearfamilies of children who are fighting cancer. This fall, Christiane, an honorary Kappa who has Batten disease, and held budget meetings with all of joined our chapter. She frequently visits the Chapter Council officers. Annie Bernica (New Member Chairman) and Rachel Theilmann (Membership Chairman) both worked hard to prepare Beta Xi house for recruitment Kappa lunch where she eats and the new pledge class coming in August. Annie worked hard to finalize bid day plans for the new socializes with chapter members and Rachel held the last recruitment workshop and began planning for the summer. As everyone began moving out for summer, it was hard to believe that this was the last time any Kappas would be living in the old house! With renovations beginning in the fall, it was a bittersweet end to a great yearThe chapter also had several canned food drives.
Over the summer, Kappa sisters parted ways for internships or study abroad programs. Summer flew by and by August everyone was ready to get back The chapter had a walk to the University of Texas raise money for another fun year. Rachel’s hard work over the past semester all culminated in an extremely successful spirit week and recruitment week in August. Her team and our chapter’s hard work paid off when Beta Xi welcomed 61 new members on bid day at the Kappa house. In the wake of last year’s bid day behavior issues, Tricia and chapter council worked hard to make sure that bid day was safe NEDA and fun fundraised for everyone. We were able to overcome the challenges from the previous year and put our chapter back on good standing with this yearly celebration of the new membersJed Foundation.
September marked the first week of school and the first football game, and everyone was excited to be back. With renovations starting, this month was the first time we began holding chapter meetings in the Student Union, our temporary home. The first meeting in the union ran smoothly and Catherine Anne (VPAE) congratulated the 26 members that received 4.0’s and happily announced that the chapter GPA had increased from the previous semester to a 3.44! Meredith (Event) and Sophie (Risk Management) worked hard to plan our first date event of the semester, Kappa Kidnap. The event was at a dance hall right outside of Austin and everyone had a great time with their dates and the live band. Annie (New Member) also planned a fun new member retreat and the new pledge class had a great time bonding and getting to know one another before the semester began to pick up speed.
October was another busy month for Beta Xi. Meredith (Event Chairman) planned another great date event with Tri-Delt, and the month ended with Owl-o-ween, our date function with Chi-Omega. We had some issues with our risk management policies that needed to be addressed after these events. Chapter council discussed some ways to hold the chapter accountable for their actions at events and to reinforce new standards for behavior for everyone. We decided to implement a buddy system between “bigs” and “littles” as well as looking for ways to improve bus riding attendance at events. Michelle Nash (Registrar) worked hard to plan compositesDiversity, and coordinated with a new company to have composites taken in the Union. Avery Travis (Marshal) did an amazing job planning and executing Initiation without a house. Initiation was held in a church near campus and ran very smoothlyEquity, and the newly initiated members and their parents went to a fun brunch afterwards at Hotel Ella down the street. Anna Wittenmyer (Fraternity Education Chairman) did an outstanding job planning Founder’s day. The event was held at AT&T and actives and alumnae attended and enjoyed stories and songs from the Kappa pickers. Inclusion In November the semester was quickly wrapping up. Meredith (Event Chairman) did a great job planning a fun parent’s weekend and everyone enjoyed the chapter-wide dinner at a local Mexican restaurant. Meredith also did an outstanding job planning Kappa Formal, our last formal of the semester. The event was held at Austin Music Hall downtown. Morgan Bridges (Recording Secretary) 2021 was elected slate chairman, and worked extremely hard to conduct meetings with the slate committee to nominate the officers for next first full year. She gave the slate presentation at meeting in November, and officer transitions began quickly after, and the new and old Chapter Councils began working together. In December, the semester began to come to a close, with only one week in between Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks for some. The girls worked really hard to get through finals and the end of the semester. 2015 was a great transition year for Beta Xi. Despite challenges from the house renovation, our chapter has remained stronger and closer than ever, and we look forward to the next year! Campus: There were some changes to the campus climate in 2015. The University of Texas transitioned to having a new president, Gregory LDEI chair on chapter council. Fenves, She promoted university-wide diversity and Bevo XIV passed away near the end of the football season. Chapter: The nature of our chapter is what we are most proud of because Kappas are well known at the University of Texas for being friendlyinclusion seminars, open-minded and well liked by all groups on campus. Our main goal in 2015 was to increase chapter unity despite the house renovationsspeeches, and our chapter did a great job finding ways to be together in the face of those challengesstudent organizations. Chapter Philanthropy: What organization(s) has your DEI presentations were given during chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, in your community?Wooldrige Elementary, SEAL Why did your chapter choose this organization(s) to support?We have a great relationship with Wooldridge Elementary where we have our annual RIF event every springmeetings that included promoting national heritage holidays. The kids are always very excited about the event and the Kappas are always eager to make DEI chair also gave a difference face-DEI presentation during work week to-facepromote inclusivity during recruitment.
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'''Note to Chapter Registrar:'''
Please refer to your chapter archives including chapter meeting minutes and back issues of The Key to fill in any gaps in the above historical highlights. If your chapter archives are not complete, please research your university library, campus newspaper and yearbook archives for newsworthy information about your chapter. Please double check your work for accuracy. Contact chapter Advisory or House Board members, local Alumnae Association members, or your Province Director of Chapters for assistance.
Your efforts will ensure Operating in a complete PandemicHow did your chapter operations change due to COVID-19 (e.g., how did it affect recruitment, initiation, etc. Were events/activities held virtually?). Share what you have done this year. Chapter operations were impacted by COVID-19. During the spring, chapter and chapter council meetings were held virtually, and sisterhood and philanthropy events were usually outside in smaller groups. Work week and recruitment were a hybrid environment. Many work week activities were in-person, wearing masks. Recruitment was virtual until the preference round, which was split into two days, socially distanced, and accurate history masked. In the fall, the chapter saw a return to many more in-person events. The initiation ceremonies were once again in-person, although Fireside was split into two groups to facilitate social distancing. The chapter also elected to use the combined service for initiation, per the recommendation of your chapter Kappa nationals, to limit close contact between initiates and alumnae. The white room had less draping to allow for future generations better ventilation, and seniors were not required to enjoy!attend so that the room was less crowded than it would have been in a pre-pandemic initiation.
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|Image= [[File:Beta_Xi.jpg|200px]]
|Founded= {{start date and years ago|1902|05|12}}
|College= [httphttps://www.utexas.edu/ University of Texas at Austin]
|Location= Austin, TX
|Homepage= [https://chaptersutexas.kappakappagammakappa.org/betaxi/ Beta Xi Homepage]|Media= [httphttps://wiki.kappakappagammakkg.org/index.php?title=Category:Beta_Xi Media related to Beta Xi Chapter]}}
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'''4,602 817 initiates (as of June 20152018)'''
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'''Charter members:'''
Olatia Crane, Helen Olive Devine, Fanny West Harris, Alma Keturah Jones, Minnie Avelyn Petty, Marian Leigh Rather, Katherine Andrews Searcy, Eva Miriam Sodekson, Josephine Lucile Wathen.
'''Fraternity Alumnae Achievement Award Recipients:'''
Helen Knox, 1952, banker, author, Red Cross volunteer;
Prudence Mahaffey Mackintosh, 1988, author of books and magazines;
'''Additional Outstanding Beta Xi Alumnae:'''
Ann Haun (Barlow), Graduate Counselor 1961-1962;
Nancy Haun (Dozier), Graduate Counselor 1959-1960;
==Highlights of 2000-2010==
Beta Xi welcomed the new millenium millennium with a variety of new chapter activities. Each year, the sisters gathered at a chapter retreat in the fall to build and restore relationships within the chapter. New sisterhood programs included television nights, a makeover with a make-up artist, a cooking class, a yoga class, manicures, and a ceramics class. To prepare for Recruitment, a Work Week was held in which the entire chapter learned new skits, practiced old songs, and perfected Recruitment strategies. A leadership workshop for the outgoing and incoming officers, and their advisers, to aid in the transition process. The Vice President-Academic Excellence worked to improve the chapter’s G.P.A. by implementing the “Owl Jar” program, which recognized members for their hard work, and introducing the “Study Fairy,” a magical being who rewarded Kappas found studying on campus. Social events included Kappa Cocktail, Owl-O-Ween, Monmouth Duo with Pi Beta Phi, Kappa/Tri-Delt Ranch, Parents’ Weekend, Mom and Dad Weekends, and Junior/Senior Night. One evening the entire chapter attended a sing-a-long at a local restaurant. Beta Xi also continued the tradition of hosting a Halloween party and trick-or-treating for the children of local alumnae. '''Housing:''' Beta Xi continued to occupy the chapter house throughout the decade.
In January, the new Beta Xi Chapter Council was eager to continue the legacy of great leadership of
past officers, as well as accomplishing new goals for out chapter. For President, Ellen Crowe
served; For Vice President Standards, Anna Wittenmeyer served; For Vice President Organization,
Hailey Becker served; For Vice President Academic Excellence, Erin Kreindler served; For Recording
Secretary, Ali Purnell served; For Corresponding Secretary, Charlotte Paine served; For Treasurer,
Payton Scott served; For Assistant Treasurer, Camille Szelc served; For Registrar, Avery Travis
served; For Marshal, Hannah Love served; For Education Chairman, Caroline Smyrl served; For House
Chairman, Sara Shaw served; For Membership Chairman, Riley Longtain served; For New Member
Chairman, Tai Massimilian served; For Panhellenic Delegate, Alex Page served; For Philanthropy
Chairman, Berkley Johnson served; For Public Relations Chairman, Kathryn Stouffer served; For Risk
Management Chairman, Grace Winston served; and For Event Chairman, Mallory Morris served.
The Beta Xi Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma had an excellent year of growth and bonding in2017. In our first January, a new group of Chapter Council members began meeting we created our 2013 Leadership Action Plan. We spent time working on a plan that would guide us to and carrying on thelegacy of excellent, cooperative leadership our chapter improvement and would help us hold each other accountable has had in our various officesrecent years. Our first area Hannah Love wasPresident, Tai Massimilian was Self-Discovery and Intellectual and we chose our focus to be to support future career endeavors. We made 3 goals for this area: implement Owl of the Week (an time for a chosen Kappa to describe her internship)VP Standards, host a resume workshop and mock-interview sessionKaki Miller was VP Organization, and offer additional resources such as networking and internship lists. Our second area Payton Scott was Interpersonal Development and our focus VP Academic Excellence, Lauren Fisher was to increase chapter unity. Our three goals were family (plan 2 spring family events)Recording Secretary, fitness (encourage weekly workout classes at the Kappa house)Emily Parnell wasCorresponding Secretary, Cameron Shepherd was Membership Chairman, and film (feature a “Rom-Com” of the Month after study snacks at the house). Our third area Sarah Gregory was Leadership and Skill Building with a focus on clarity and transparency. Our four goals were to increase chapter usage of the Gin systemNewMember Chairman, make house points viewable and update them monthlyCamille Szelc was Treasurer, keep a detailed record of the budgetJennifer Harbour was Assistant Treasurer, and present information in a comprehensible and entertaining manner. Our fourth area Emma Riddle was Understanding and Appreciation of Kappa and we wanted to emphasize Kappa Then and Now. Our three goals were to promote better understanding of formal meetingPhilanthropy Chairman, ritualHallie Smith was Event Chairman, and the history of KappaCaroline Smyrl wasRegistrar, expand the size of Pickers and increase their involvementGrace Winston was House Chairman, Charlotte Fitzpatrick was Marshal, AudreyHalbrook was Risk Management Chairman, Regan Ewing was Panhellenic Delegate, TessaLauritzen was the Public Relations Chairman, and look Allison Ainsworth was Education Chairman.2017’s Chapter Council has worked tremendously hard to alumni for opportunities and guidance after collegeimplement our strategic plan to get ourchapter back in good standing with both Kappa nationals and the university. We are proud By far the most exciting thing for our chapter in 2017 has been being able to say that all of these goals had a clear presence throughout 2013be back in our newlyremodeled house! We have been so grateful for the Beta Xi House Board and all the time, money,energy, and we successfully followed through on them to make sure thought that they will be implemented in put into the future as wellplans to remodel our historic chapter house. Before the In Januarybeginning of school, the chapter was in House Board hosted an open house for alumnae, donors, families, andmembers to view the midst of getting adjusted amazing changes to the new semester house. It was such a special time for Beta Ximembers of all ages to come together and Chapter Councilshare in the excitement of the opening. We received 2 new affiliatesThe very nextday, Ella Coffey and Danielle Fensonactive members moved in, and voted to accept them into our chapter. Molly McConn, Membership Chairman, the house immediately got started on the recruitment process by recruiting freshman sprang to become Area Rush Captainslife. She also held It has been such a meeting blessing for the freshman in order chapter to start teaching them about the rush process. Willa Jolinkhave a common meeting grounds again and to share meals together, Education Chairmanstudy together, planned and have our meetings as a cooking class for the seniors to replace one of chapter in the house.Also in January, Hannah (President) began Chapter Council meetings that they are required to attend. Willa also planned by having all of ChapterCouncil read the program night Strategic Plan for January and brought in Kendyl Richards from Austin Smiles to speak about her non-profit our chapter’s Warning of Probation and review the importance goals andcalendar we had set for the semester. Some of volunteering. Peyton Bivinsour goals included improvement in chaptermanagement, Public Relations Chairmanrecruitment, worked on the January newsletter. The officers new member experience and programming, standards and riskmanagement, and panhellenic leadership. Hannah also made scheduled and coordinated a fun video meetingbetween Chapter Council and Katherine Latta, our Leadership Development specialist, for the chapter that introduced the new leaders aStrategic Plan workshop and explained their positions. It was a fun way to get the New Year started!discussion over Start With Why , a book that all of Chapter Council February began with had read over Christmas break. During our first “Rom-Com” Chapter meeting of the month on February 5thsemester, Hannah wentover the strategic plan, emphasizing its importance for all members, and reading our ChapterMission Statement. All of Tai (VPS) also went over standards behavioral expectations during the girls came to firstmeeting and also held elections for the house to watch a fun movie after study snacksnew Standards Committee members. There was a huge turnout Grace (House Chair)organized an Orientation for the in-house girls from House Board to explain the rules and made for a fun night organization of bonding at the house. On February 10th we held “Rookie Rush” at Grace and Tai also gave a presentation to the chapter during the firstmeeting about respecting our newly remodeled house . Cameron (Membership Chair) also held aworkshop for the freshman. They were taught freshmen on a Sunday at the basics end of recruitment, the month to teach them the ins and all outs of recruitment on the recruitment team worked with them other side and to learn chants, emphasize the stack, and importance of our strategic goals for the general recruitment process. All of the freshmen were so excited to meet the new girls that could potential be February began with a visit from our new Kappa membersLeadership Consultant, Maddy. Additionally, every year we participate Kaki (VPO) organized agreat week in Kisses Austin for Kappa. We donate her, and chapter council enjoyed spending time with her at the house and make goody bags of Hershey’s kisses meeting with her individually to give discuss ways to a local elderly home on Valentine’s Dayimprove each office. Catherine Wilson, Philanthropy Hallie (Event Chair, helped lead ) andAudrey (Risk Management) planned a great Monmouth formal with the chapter in making goody bags and delivering them to their lucky recipientsPi Phis at Palm Door. It brightened the day of Everyone had a great night with their dates, dancing with the people living band all night and taking pictures in the home and made Valentine’s Day special for all of the Kappa members that participatedphoto booth. Later in the monthEmily (Corresponding Secretary) also gave a presentation to the chapter on theGIN system, our biggest event of which the officers have been using more effectively throughout the year, Monmouth, was held on February 16th with Pi Phitocommunicate information to the chapter. The party was at Sarah (New Member) also finalized the plans for the newmember bid day retreat in the Hyatt Regency with huge success! We had a face painter, photo booth, foodFall, which was something that our chapter had never done before.She did an excellent job planning and a band. It succeeded due communicating to a lot of work from Isabel Dann, Social ChairmanChapter Council, and Julie Parma, Risk Management Chairman. The chapter took buses to and from the event and safely enjoyed the evening. On February 18thReagan(Panhellenic) discussed our exciting plans with other chapters, Chapter Council met with who followed Kappas lead inimplementing an off-campus retreat in their bid day plans rather than releasing the Alpha girls aftermidnight.March was another exciting month for Beta Xi Delta Chapter Council as a part with lots of a Panhellenic sisterhood event that Sara Holl, Panhellenic delegate, planned events and organizedactivities for our actives to allbond. Chapter Council also went through Cameron (Membership) hosted another recruitment workshop for the freshmen where shebegan to teach them the Standing Rules songs and By-Laws during their February Chapter Council meetings and made sure they were up dances. Her and her team began to date and correct for each positionfamiliarize the freshmenwith more details of recruitment week. February 21st was our Chapter Retreat at Jump Street. The chapter rode buses out They also met with the newly appointed area assistant to develop strategies. In the event and had a blast jumping on all middle of the trampolines month, the doors of Kappa locked and playing dodge ball. February was a busy month!the chapter March opened with dispersed across the Province Retreat in Lubbock. Chapter Council got on a bus with country and the A&M Kappa chapter council and headed out world for to meet with all the other Kappa chapters in our province. We all had a great time in Lubbock talking with other chapters and learning more about leadership in Kappa. Our chapter received the award for Best Ritual. Overallfun-filled Spring Break! As soon as everyonereturned from their trips, it was a great bonding and learning experience Emma (Philanthropy) began getting everyone excited for our chapter council and helped kick start the month of Marchupcomingphilanthropy opportunities. The first In the week in March was also House Mother Appreciation week. After our first meeting of the month we all wrote notes after Spring Break, she encouraged the entire chapter to our House Mother, Miss Judi, get their families and friends to express our appreciation for her dedication to our houseparticipate in the B+ Campaign. AdditionallyThe campaign was acampus-wide competition before the Round Up weekend, each day Macy Barnett, House Chairmanand Kappa proudly raised around$4, 000. Emma also planned something special for Miss Judi. Spring Break was March 11-17 and our annual Pi Phi Kappa Karnival event, hosted at the Kappas traveled across the nation Pi Phi housewith live music, snow cones, face painting, and abroad to enjoy the week off a petting zoo. Beta Xi raised $6,000 from school. Karnival to When donate to RIF! During April, we got back from Spring Break, said goodbye to our Leadership Consultanthouse mom, Kristi Watts, came to visit our chapter from the 17th to the 22ndMs. Judi. She had We are so grateful forthe years she spent making sure the Beta Xi house felt like a presentation and activities home for all the chapter at our meeting on Mondaymembers. We also had a program night where Willa Jolink, Education Chairman, brought the Ransom Notes (Hallie(Events) wrapped up the month by planning an awesome Dad’s Weekend. The chapter enjoyeddinner with their dad’s at Dirty Martin’s on campus a cappella group) to sing for our chapter. On April 19thFriday, Kristi Watts held and the next day everyone got to enjoy a Zumba class for tour ofthe chapter before study snacks, Kappa house and Lea Edwards, Registrar, hosted the “Rom-Com” a private tour of the month for the chapterDarrell K. March 22-24 was Round-Up weekend and all Royal Memorial Football Stadium! We alsohad very productive chapter meetings during March. In fulfillment of our probation terms with the fraternities University, we had an informative and sororities hosted fun philanthropy events interactive alcohol awareness presentation from UniversityHealth Services. Although it was a required program, the entire chapter found it interesting and concerts throughout helpful to understand the weekendbest way to socialize responsible in a college environment. On March 25th the freshman had another recruitment event where each Area Recruitment Captain told the Kaki (VPO)also continued to work on making Committee Chapter Meetings a fun way for every member tofeel like they contribute to our chapter about . She restructured the incoming freshman Committee Night schedule to makesure that they were excited aboutcommittees completed their agendas. The girls made cute posters In April, the semester was in full swing and signs to help people remember their nameswe had another great month for Beta Xi. On March 27th Peyton BivinsAt thebeginning of the month, Public Relations Chairmanwe welcomed our new house mom, hosted our Easter party for alumni and their kidsMs. Sherri to the Beta Xi house! We had face painting, games, candyhave loved the life, love and an Easter Bunny at the party. Many Kappa alumni warmth she has brought their kids to the party, her house with her constant cheeriness and it was a huge success. April 1st started off with a resume workshop to help prepare for the upcoming round of job interviewsfamous shortbread. Caroline CooperNicole Covert, VP Academic Excellenceour Recruitment Advisor, hosted received the event award for OutstandingAdvisor from University Fraternity and everyone found it very helpful and informativeSorority Life. Nicole is more than deserving of this award. On April 5th Catherine WilsonNot only does she put in countless hours of work for our chapter, but she is an outstanding mom, Philanthropy Chairfriend, hosted our annual Kappa Pi Phi Powder-Puff game at the intermural fields to raise money for RIFand volunteer. It was a huge success with a snow cone maker, prizes, We are so proud and a raffle. Kappa won the game for the 3rd year in a rowthankful to have her as part of our amazing advisoryboard! On April 6th we had our annual Reading is Key party Tessa (PR) also planned an Easter Party at Zavala Elementary School. Our chapter brought books for every kid hosted the Kappa house, with an afternoon partyEaster egg hunt, complete with gamescookie decorating, craftspictures, and face paintmore fun. On Hallie (Event Chair) planned two great events duringApril 7th we . We had our third recruitment workshop with the freshmen another fun semi-formal, Kite and sophomores. The sophomores demonstrated their rush skills by helping them Key, with Theta at the songsSummit. She also plannedan awesome Mom’s Weekend, danceswith a shopping event at Adelante on Friday, and noise level. Nancy Ellison, our PDCa dinner at Max’s, who was regularly updated by Sullivan Franklin-Mitchell, Recording Secretary, attended our Chapter Council meeting andbrunch at the house on April 7thSaturday. It was fun for Chapter Council to chat Cameron (Membership) closed out the month with her and get to update her in person rather than through email. a On April 9th we had our “Romchapter-Com” wide recruitment workshop, the last workshop of the monthsemester. In accordance with ourStrategic Plan, which was right after study snacks the recruitment team updated the members on Panhellenic and was a fun break for everyone. Soon afterKappa NationalsrulesIn May, Junior/Senior night was on April 11th. It was a special night where things at the Beta Xi house started to quiet down as all the upperclassman had dinner together at Iron Cactus members began to prepare fortheir finals and talked about all the fun memories they’ve had at Kappasemester came to an end. April 12-14 was our annual Mom’s WeekendBefore everyone dispersed for the summer. Isabel Dann, Social ChairAllison(Education) conducted the Senior Sendoff, planned a fun weekend with a happy hour at a local store, Adelante, humorous and a brunch at sentimental event where the seniorsget to share funny memories from their college years and share what their next chapter has in storefor them as they leave UT and Kappa. The Driskill Hotel. It was Alumnae Board also gave a great weekend spent showing our mom’s Austin and presentation to the seniorsto tell them about the opportunities the Kappa housealumnae network has for them. On April 18th we had our very own, Kappa Kasual, as our second date party of Caroline (Registrar)also put them on alumnae status on Key Reports. Chapter Council ended the spring by settinggoals and preparing for the upcoming semester. It was a fun party at a local Austin venue called Haven, and girls invited dates and danced Grace (House) worked with the Sophomores to get roommate requests for the bandupcoming year. The next day we kicked off Dad’s weekend with dinner at Serrano’s. We ate fajitas on a patio Sarah (New Member) and enjoyed live music under Cameron (Membership)continued to make plans for recruiting new members and making their experience in Kappa the starsbest ever. The next night we paired up with Over the summer, the Texas Cowboys to have an event at a local venue called The Stagemembers of Beta Xi parted ways for summer school, internships, and studyabroad experiences. Overall it was a great weekend with Tessa (PR) collected photos from all the different adventures to post on our Dads. On April 24th Caroline Cooperchapter’s Tumblr, VP Academic ExcellenceInstagram, planned a networking event at and other social media accounts. Cameron, her team, and the house areaassistants worked extremely hard all summer to prepare for recruitment week, and all chapter membersof their effortpaid off. She brought in various Kappa alumni form different industries to talk to chapter members about future careers. On April 26th we had Kappa family night at We had a local Austin movie theatre drive-fun and successful work week and recruitment week inAugust. They showed We happilywelcomed 73 new members to their home at 2001 University Avenue on Bid Day! Sarah’s plan forthe film Grease new member bid day retreat at Camp Balcones Springs was very well received, and all the Kappa families carpooled together to see the movienewKappas had an enjoyable and safe time playing games and getting to know their new sisters intheir pledge class. On April 28th In September, school came in full swing, and the entire chapter participated in another Rookie Rush event. We all worked enjoyed spending time together in preparation for recruitment before , eatingmeals at the summerhouse, studying together, and attending football games. Our last meeting of Chapter Council worked tomake sure that the semester New Members really felt that the Beta Xi house was their home on April 29th, which included the Senior Send-Off during the meetingcampus. This includes Grace (House) got all of the seniors sharing a funny memory from their four years of being a Kappa. It was a bittersweet way to end fingerprints in our lock system, and Emily (CorrespondingSecretary) and Caroline (Registrar) entered their contact information into Key Reports and the semester by saying goodbye GinSystem to our beloved seniorsmake sure they received all chapter correspondence. After a post-recruitment meetingwith Panhellenic, Tai was happy to report to the chapter that we had significantly reduced ourOver fines from previous years! Before the summerfirst date event, Kappa members took jobs all across Tai also gave a presentation to the entirechapter during meeting to lay out expectations and the worldstandards that we hold each other to insocial settings. Some traveled Hallie and studied abroadAudrey planned our fun destination date event, Kappa Kasual, while others took classes in Austin or worked in New York. From diving with sharks in South Africa to spending an afternoon at Barton Springs, Kappa was represented all around the worldOasis. August 12th kicked off Work Week for Although the event was cut short by the chapter in preparation event staff for recruitment. The week was filled with fun events along with a lot of time spend preparing. The Recruitment Teambehavioral problems, led by Molly McConn, planned fun events for ChapterCouncil took the chapter, such opportunity as a petting zoo in an experience to make a better Risk Management plan for the key gardenmembers before date functions. Tai, Hannah, while also organizing slide shows and bump group practices. Throughout Hallie gave a presentation at chapter meetingthe following week to re-emphasize the seniors had fun skits that they presented to the chapter importance of safety during social events and the rush team gave out fun prizesprivilegeit is for us to be able to have these functions. August 15th was We also used our Date Dash party that was planned by Isabel Dann at Recess, a local venue. Committee Night to to get feedbackfrom the entire chapter and brainstorm ideas about how we can improve our date events to makethem as safe and enjoyable as possible! It was a fun break during Work Week, an excellent way for our members to come togetherand some of resolve a chapter-wide problem. Payton (VPAE) recognized the previously graduated Kappas joined in on the funmembers who had received a4. August 21-27 was Recruitment Week for 0 GPA the Kappas. It was an extremely successful year with previous semester during chapter and gave them a new pledge class of 71 membersgoody bag. Everyone at Kappa was so excited Her and her committeealso decided to give goody bags to see all of the new members running down University Avenue toward the house when they got members who had made a 3.8, deciding that their bidshard workshould also be noted. Tatum Jolink, New Member Chairman, planned a great Bid Night for Caroline (Registrar) also scheduled the composite photos for the new pledge class with dinner chapter at Abel’s on the end of the Lake and month.October was a face painting. They got decked out in all new Kappa gear busy month with many exciting chapter events to celebrate our heritage and history!Tai (VPS) and had a great night meeting their new Kappa sisters. And quickly after, the next morning was back Audrey (Risk Management) continued to school work on Risk Management policies for a new semester. September started out with the chapter and gave presentations before TX-OU Football weekend and our first meeting back from school Owl-O-Ween Dateevent on safety and formal pledging behavior. The members had a fun weekend in Dallas for the new pledge class. Lea Edwardsfootball game, Registrar, put the information for spending time with each other and rocking all of the their new members into Key ReportsKappa t-shirts and gear made byFavors. Tatum Jolink, New Member Chair, started holding pledge meetings after chapter meetings on Mondays. She Allison (Education) also planned out a full semester of appearances from each Kappa officer to enhance understanding of the inner workings of Kappawonderful Founder’s Day dinner. Macy BarnettThe event was hostedat AT&T Conference center, House Manager, updated the Gin systemand it was a great time for the chapter and Austin alumnae tocelebrate the history of our fraternity. We enjoyed a wonderful meal together, improving presentations fromthe advisors and house point system. Margaret Smithboard, VP Standards, scheduled meetings to meet individually with each new memberand music from Pickers. It was also Charlotte (Marshal) and Emma(Philanthropy) rallied a nice surprise when Caroline Cooper, VP Academic Excellence, was one group of six invited our members to attend the Academic Excellence conference at participate in Greek Get Down, a dancecompetition fundraiser hosted by AEPhi to support the Kappa headquartersB+ Foundation. She The members whoparticipated had an excellent time strategizing with so much fun getting to know each other VPAEs about grade improvement in each chapter and learning ways to promote academic excellencerepresenting Kappa at the event. Charlotte (Marshal) did an amazing job planning and coordinating Inspiration Week at the end ofOur meeting October. The new members were put in their new Kappa families on big-little on September 9th Tuesday, Fridaywas program night; it was special because a member Fireside, and on Saturday we happily initiated all of our chapter, Barbara Gass, discussed her experience biking from Austin, Texas to Anchorage, Alaska to raise money new members as actives! Sarahplanned a brunch for cancer research in Texas 4000the new actives and their families at AT&T following the ceremony. Kappa Kidnap was Beforeour second Owl-O-Ween date event of the year on September 12th. It is with Chi-O, Audrey put a very exciting event in which the chapter is unaware of new wristband process and bus buddysystem into place to make sure that we did not repeat the location of the event until same problems we arrivehad at Kasual. This year it was hosted about an hour outside of Austin Hallie(Events) planned the event at the famous Coupland Dance Hall. Girls wore cowboy boots Clearport and dresses and danced the night away. Parent’s Weekend was September 20th and 21sta huge success. On the 20th we hosted Tessa also planned a fun Halloween Trick-Or-Treat party with at the Texas Fiji’s at a local venue called house for alumnae to bring their kids. The Stage. There was a fun band and games. On Saturday night Catherine Wilsonin-house girlsdecorated their rooms, Philanthropy Chairput out candy, planned Kappa Cookout. Every year we have barbecue at played with all of the house kids, and invite our parents had a great time!Nothing slowed down in November, with many events and friends lots of time together for the chapter to come by after bond! Kaki hosted the football game to raise money for Reading is Fundamental. It was a huge success with a band playing in Leadership Consultant, Casey, at the key garden Kappa house and all of the house set up in a football theme. On September 27th Tatum Jolink, New Member Chair, planned officersenjoyed meeting her and hearing the ways that she thought we had improved within the new member retreatlast year. She hosted it Hallie organized a fun Parent’s Weekend, with desserts on Friday night at the house Concrete Cowboy and cleared out all Bar-B-Que at the house before the football game on Saturday! Hallie finished her term as EventsChairman with a bang by planning our last semi-formal of the furniture. The new members played games and watched movies semester, Kappa Klassic, atSpeakeasy, and the chapter danced all got night to know each other even better. September was a full month of fun and educating new membersthe jazz band.Regan (Panhellenic) continued tomeet with Panhellenic to discuss changes to the bylaws and did an outstanding job of respectfullyOctober started with presenting our annual TriDelt/Kappa Ranch Date party chapter’s stance on October 3rdthe proposals. It was held Our chapter also elected Riley Longtain as SlateChairman at a new venue called Brazos Hall and people danced all night the beginning of the month, and her and her committee put in cowboy bootsso many hours pouringover applications and nominating officers for 2018. On October 7th Elections were held, and we are so proud of andexcited for the new members had an orientation with all upcoming Chapter Council! We know they will carry on the legacy of hard work andthoughtfulness that Beta Xi officers are known for!In December, the new members in semester began to wrap up as the UT Panhellenic system. On October 12th weather changed and finals approached. Kakiplanned a leadership brunch at the Kappas headed north to Dallas house for the annual TX/OU weekendold Chapter Council, the new Chapter Council,and their advisors. This It was the first a wonderful time to share all of the accomplishments of the past year in 3 years that Texas pulled out a win and everyone was very excited! On October 14th we had program night during our meeting and Willa Jolink invited to transition the UT Slam Poetry team to come perform new officers into their positions. Emma also planned the final Philanthropy eventfor usRIF at Wooldridge Elementary. It was The upperclassmen contributed to a great way for book drive that Kappadonated to the chapter school. The underclassmen got to see spend a different side of campus. Lea EdwardsSaturday morning at Wooldridge,playing basketball with the kids, Registrarpainting their faces, planned composites pictures to be taken on October 15-16and getting them excited about their newbooks. Everyone dressed up in black to take pictures in the side living room. On October 16th Chapter Council had 2017 has been a fun dinner with all great year of their advisors at Santa Ritaunity and growth for Beta Xi. It was a great way for everyone We have so enjoyed being ableto hang out with their advisor spend time in our beautifully newly-renovated house, and meet we are excited for all the other advisors who do so much for our chaptermemoriesthat will come there in 2018!Describe the recent changes on your campus and describe the overall nature of your chapter. We celebrate Kappa Founder’s Day on October 21st. Willa Jolinkwelcomed a new football coach, Tom Herman, Education Chairmanin 2017, planned a wonderful event at the AT&T Conference center across from the Kappa house. We honored Kappa alumni and remembered and it has been an exciting time for our foundersteam as they continue to improve. We even had an appearance from the Pickers! On October 29th Peyton BivinsThere were also several emergency incidents on campus thisyear, Public Relations Chairman, planned causing the alumni Halloween party. All of the local alumni brought their kids dressed up campus to unify and rally around support for Halloween, mental health and our campus safety.Our chapter hosted is known on campus for being a party with trick or treating, face painting, well-rounded and gamesopen minded group of youngladies. On October 31st we had We are proud to have so many members involved in other organizations and makingimportant changes on our annual party with Chi Omega called Owloweencampus and in Austin. It was at a local venue downtown Beta Xi allows its members to be the bestversions of themselves, and was a great way to celebrate Halloween we love that those things are reflected in our house as a well as on ourcampus!Chapter Philanthropy:What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to, inyour community? Wooldridge Elementary, B+ FoundationWhy did your chapterchoose this organization(s) to support?We have had a great relationship with Wooldridge Elementary School throughout the years. Severalof our members enjoy our RIF events so much at Wooldridge that they volunteer independentlythere as mentors. Our chapter even received an award from the Wooldridge Elementary School forour outstanding volunteer work with their school.Several sororities and fraternities on campus have also adopted B+ heroes, who are kids battlingcancer. Beta Xi has adopted a sweet little girl, named Moriah, who comes to the house about oncea week. We feel like Moriah is one of our sisters, and it has been such a joy for our chapter tosupport her and her family as she goes through her journey. Moriah is one of the reasons ourchapter has been so passionate about fundraising for the B+ Foundation, and we are proud of themoney we have raised for such an awesome organization!Chapter Facility:In what kind of a facility does your chapter meet? Please attach a clear photo of where you typically holdchapter meetings – whether in a classroom, chapter house or elsewhere.We have a beautiful newly renovated house. We use our main dining room as the chapter room,where hold meetings throughout the year.
This year,the Texas Longhorns played a fantastic season and played against the Oklahoma Sooners in the
Big 12 Championship at the AT&T Stadium. This was the first year since 2009 that the Longhorns made
it to the Big 12 Championship,and it was the first time since 1903 that the two teams played each
other twice in one season.
The Longhorns will go on to play the Georgia Bulldogs in the Sugar Bowl on New Year's Day.
After a long campaign season and a runoff,Colton Becker and Mehraz Rahman were elected
as the new student body president and vice president. Our chapter is known throughout campus
for being very involved in multiple school functions and clubs.
The traditional "Kappa"girl is known for being respectable,responsible,and true to herself.
Our house is a landmark on campus, and we take pride in welcoming people to see this
special place.
Our chapter supports Reading Is Fundamental,B+ Foundation