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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.
Philanthropy was Without our trusty senior girls to guide us and without a priority for Beta Xi house to meet in , Chapter Council braved the unknown and began to meet. Ellen Crowe (President) began the twenty-first centuryyear with efficiency and care, planning and leading Chapter Council meetings. The They finalized edits on the chapter maintained traditions such as bylaws and standing rules, educated themselves on how to use the Kappa Klassic Pool Tournamentdrive and webinars, which raised almost $5,000 for a charity in 2006. Other philanthropic activities included holding a Chili Cookoff and reviewed the expectations and responsibilities of Chapter Council members with the Tri-Delts, volunteering with help of Hailey Becker (VP Organization). She went over goals for the SPCA year, including chapter unity, continuing to revamp philanthropy, and getting the Highland Park Elementary Halloween carnivalchapter on board with the Risk Management policies, decorating as well as the rules and goals of Standards Committee. Chapter council discussed some ways to hold the Children’s Hospital chapter accountable for various holidays, hosting Easter their actions at events and Halloween parties to reinforce new standards for local children, and making Christmas cookies behavior for hospitalized childreneveryone. Children have always been We decided to change our buddy system from “bigs” and “littles,” to a major focus for “pick-a-buddy” system, where the group, and in 2008girls signed up with a friend before events to be their accountability partner. Grace Winstonbus-riding attendance at events, while AnnaWittenmyer (VP Standards) streamlined the sisters provided free winter coats to children through Coats for Kidsway we approach standards decisions.Sara Shaw
Two new philanthropy traditions began during this decade. In 2009, Beta Xi hosted its first Kappa Cookout, an event that invited community members to join the sisters for delicious catered food. That year, the proceeds from selling tickets to the event, $7,600, went to The Austin Children’s Shelter. The following year, the chapter raised more than $8,000 and donated the proceeds to the RIF (Reading is Fundamental)of Austin, specifically to the Palm Elementary School. Donations were also made to the Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation. The other new philanthropic event was a powder puff football game with Pi Beta Phi. Proceeds from the tickets were donated to the Davis Moon Project, a non-profit organization that collects books to be hand-delivered through organized literacy mission trips in Addis, Ethiopia.
'''Convention AwardsIn February, Kappas were getting settled in with their classes, and the officers were beginning to get the hang of their new responsibilities:'''planning events, running meetings, and fulfilling their duties more easily. Berkley Johnson (Philanthropy Chair) took it upon herself to completely revamp Beta Xi’s philanthropic efforts. She continued the new partnership with the B+ Foundation that the last philanthropy chair began, combining Kappa’s passion for 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 hospital, playing games, doing puzzles, and when she felt up to it, even having dance parties with our newest little Kappa. Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) and Grace Winston (Risk Management) pulled off a great Monmouth formal at Brazos Hall, and 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 prepared for recruitment, so did Alex Page (Panhellenic Delegate) and Grace Anne McGinnis, a Kappa who served as Vice President of UT’s Panhellenic Council. They began a wonderful year of working together and representing Kappa well to other sororities and to UPC. We rounded out the month with a visit from our moms, with fun shopping events and a brunch at The Grove downtown to celebrate Mom’s Weekend.
==Highlights 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) helped plan our fundraiser, Kappa Pi-Phi Carnival, complete with snow cones and live music, raising money for our philanthropy. We love joining forces with another sorority who also cares about supporting literacy, and the event was a blast as usual. She also held a successful RIF event at Wooldridge Elementary. The entire chapter came together and set up stations at the school to play games, read, decorate bookmarks, and get their faces painted. At the end of 2011the laughter-2019==filled event, each child took home a book (or two!). Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) planned an awesome Dad’s Weekend, with food catered on a fun rooftop venue and the chapter attending the Spring football game with their dads. 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 venue downtown and everyone had a wonderful time. A senior Kappa, Kallen Dimitroff ran for Student Body President of the University of Texas, and despite her campaign’s loss, it wasincredible to see the whole chapter gather around her and support her with pride.
==Highlights of 2011==Kappa events slowed and finals approached, as May rolled around. Caroline Smyrl (Education Chairman) conducted Senior Sendoff, a fun event after chapter where we recognize the seniors and In 2011hear funny memories from years past, Beta Xi focused on strengthened sisterhood including poems and encouraging scholarly achievement“twinkies” from some seniors’ parents. A chapter retreat These very seniors then became alums after graduation celebrations, and it was held made official in Key Reports. Some of them got into top graduate schools to continue their studies, while others headed off to work in cities around the country. They were off into the world! Payton Scott (Treasurer) worked hard to set up the budget for the benefit upcoming school year, and held budget meetings with all of the members Chapter Council officers. Tai Massimilian (New Member Chairman) and “get-Riley Longtain (Membership Chairman) both worked hard to-know-you” games were played at prepare for recruitment and the new pledge class coming in August, with the Kappa added challenge of finding a home for Spirit and Recruitment weeks without our house. Sisterhood activities included Nightmare on 6th StreetWe talked to event halls and fraternity houses, Tri-Delt Ranchand we finally found a place to hold the events and welcome our new members…stay tuned below! Riley also held the last recruitment workshop and began planning for the summer with her incredible team. The girls in dorms, Kappa Cocktailapartments, and Monmouth. The Vice President-Academic Excellence stressed the importance houses packed their bags and headed out of good grades with the new “Smarty Pants” system at chapter meetings. Alumnae members are often invited to campus Austin, waving goodbye to speak to the chapter about job applications and careersthis school year.
'''Housing:'''Over the summer, Kappa sisters spread out across the globe for internships, jobs, and study abroad Beta Xi is currently one of only two Greek houses on the University of Texas at Austin campus in whichprograms. 60 members are able From Spain, to New York, to liveParis, most usually live to Dallas and Houston and Galveston, to all the way in during their junior or senior year. Every MondayAustralia, Kappas took the sisters gather for dinner before world by storm. But the chapter meetingmonths flew by, as summer always does, and lunch is provided every day for memberscame to a close. Every two weeksBy August, everyone was ready to get back to their Kappa friends, to Austin, a delicious Mexican Guest Lunch is held where Kappas can bring a guest from outside and to the University of the FraternityTexas.
'''Philanthropy:'''But unlike years past, when Kappas ran into our house on University Avenue to prepare for recruitment, this year we ran into…the Sigma Alpha Epsilon house, another temporary home! The SAE Beta Xi continued hosting the spring Easter party and the fall Halloween party fraternity boys kindly let us borrow their conveniently located house for local elementary students every yeara few weeks. In 2011 And as we did with the Union, we turned the SAE house into a home. Kappa Cookout was again held by seems to have an uncanny knack of making anywhere feel like a loving home. It could be a room in the chapter and raised $7Student Union,800 for the Davis Moon Projecta study abroad dorm, an organization previously supported by Beta Xi’s efforts. Kappa once again faced off a cramped apartment full of Kappas working in New York city, or a game of powder puff football against Pi Phifraternity house, an event that raised approximately $5but if Kappas are together,000 for the Austin Children’s Shelterit feels like home.It is definitely a skill we are proud of!
==Highlights of 2012==Riley Longtain (Recruitment Chair) and her team’s hard work over the past semester culminated at The 2012 calendar year started off with the newly elected officers end of August. Spirit week was a blast, and the Beta Xi chapter making chapter’s hard work during a smooth transition into their long week of recruiting paid off when 68 awesome new positions. Chapter Council also kicked off members came running to the year Littlefield fountain on campus, to be welcomed by hosting the LEAD seminar our chapter with Kappas from Texas A&M and Texas Techopen arms. The stresses of a long Recruitment and being without a real home took a toll on the chapter council, led by however. Our chapter stumbled on Bid Night with some behavioral issues that we know are unacceptable. Ellen Crowe (President Erin Weitzel) and the Chapter Council quickly jumped into action, met every Sunday evening taking ownership of our mistakes and trying to plan upcoming meetings and events throughout get the yearchapter back on track. Erin implemented pillars We would have been lost without the fearless leadership of Ellen, the patience of Anna Wittenmyer (VP Standards), the planning of organization Hailey Becker (VP Organization), and enthusiasm which set the tone for the chapter council officersmaturity of Tai Massimillian (New Member Chairman). This was We knew there would be consequences and this would be a very important year long road ahead, but we also knew that changes that needed to occur. We were nervous but excited for Beta Xi and many improvements were made to better how our chapter would evolve because of this past year. The officers worked very hard to better the chapter and efficiently and effectively follow out their dutieschallenge.
Callie WilliamsIn spite of the chaos, September rolled around, Vice President 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 Organizationthings, maintained an organized calendar and the new members learned the ins and outs of all their new chapter. Following the events throughout of Bid Day, we were visited by Emily Murdock and Illiana Garcia, our Theta District director and specialist. They helped our Chapter Council remember the “why?” of our chapter, as well as realign the year and communicated goals of Beta Xi with officers that of the national organization. They inspired our leaders to be better and the to lead our chapter about what events out of this slump. They began helping us build a strategic plan to put on improve our chapter and help us rectify the mistakes of the calendarweeks prior. Along Weeks passed, with Callie the Chapter Council put together first formal meeting held by Hannah Love (Marshal) and program nights like the one featuring Shannon Moody, where we learned about the Jeremiah Project, a great Leadership Action Plan that highlighted the center for single mothers, organized by Caroline Smyrl (Fraternity Education Chairman). Hailey Becker (VP Organization) revamped committee nights, helping each committee set goals of the Chapter for the upcoming yearsemester. Callie We also assisted with giving chapter members had an exciting visit from the ability Fraternity President Beth Black, held at an alumni’s house in Austin. It was incredible for some of our officers to fill out a Google Form meet such an inspiring leader of the organization that we love so much. Erin Kreindler (VP Academic Excellence) was happy to indicate which committee they are interested report that 13 of our chapter members received 4.0 GPA’s in the spring, and would prefer to be the chapter’s cumulative GPA was 3.47, as the grade report came in. Kappa competed inthe second annual Greek Get Down dance competition—and though we didn’t place like we did last year, rather than simply designating we had so much fun dancing! Much of the team was made up of our new members to random committee. This , so it was a big change great way for freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors to all get to know one another. Mallory Morris (Event Chairman) organized our Chapter Committees that made members first fun event, Kappa Kidnap, at large much more dedicated to their committeea dance hall outside of Austin. Callie also prepared for With cowboy boots and dresses on, the Kappas danced the Leadership Consultant's visit night away to country music from a live band. Soon enough the the Beta Xi Chapter and hosted her during her staysemester was in full swing.
Laurel PuglieseOctober 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, and ended the month with our traditional Halloween dance, called Owl-o-ween, with Chi Omega. We absolutely love doing events with our friends in other sororities! But double the girls, Vice President means double the amount of people trying to safely get home. Despite some bumps in the road in our risk management policies in the past, Grace Winston (Risk Management Chair) and Anna Wittenmyer (VP Standards, worked with her committee ) did an amazing job encouraging everyone to perfect follow our policies. The buddy system became more successful as the semester went on, and as well as bus system riding attendance. Hannah Love (Marshal) did a stellar job planning and make sure members were upholding executing Initiation, in our second year without a house. Initiation was held in a different church than the year before, but Hannah was calm in the standards face of chaos, and the event ran as smoothly as ever. The newly initiated members had a wonderful morning, and afterwards joined their parents and friends for a fun brunch at Hotel Ella near campus. Caroline Smyrl (Fraternity policyEducation Chairman) did an outstanding job planning Founder’s Day. Laurel also organized The event was held at AT&T Conference Center. Actives and alumnae alike enjoyed stories from alums, songs from the Kappa pickers, and a presentation by the House Board, who has worked so hard on the Chapter retreat at Alamo Draft house in January to encourage chapter-wide bondingrenovations. All of Beta Xi attended for singing Hannah Love (Marshal), Kaki Miller (Key Sis Chair), and dancing Tai Massimilian (New Member Chairman) worked together to organize a “Big Sis, Little Sis” event with photos by the University Tower, then on to 90's music. Laurel also fun event at a trampoline park! Avery Travis (Registrar) planned many events composites, and the Kappas “smiled pretty” for their photos. Avery coordinated with the Chapter same company from the year before to increase bonding such as movies have composites taken in the Union. Our temporary home at the house or profit shares at Red MangoUnion was really starting to feel like ours own—we had taken over! Many chapter members said they will actually miss our makeshift Union “house. ”
Ady WetegroveIn 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, Vice President Academic Excellenceour last event of the semester. The event was held at Cedar Street Courtyard downtown, helped with a fun live band. Then came the tumultuous 2016 Presidential Election that divided our Chapter improve campus. Kappas went out and voted for their choice, but our overall GPA nation was not the only thing that was struggling to be above unify in the All Sorority Average face of adversity. Ellen and theofficers continued to edit and work on the Strategic Plan for upcoming year. With Ellen’s great vision and the Spring help of 2012the national organization itself, our specialists and the chapter members, we were able to construct a plan that would allow Kappa to grow in the coming years. She Avery Travis (Registrar) was elected slate chairman, and worked extremely hard to conduct meetings with her dedicated and passionate slate committee held individuals more accountable to nominate the officers for their individual grades while providing them assistancenext year. She also incorporated “office hours” This year was tougher than ever, with so many great candidates stepping up for New Members officer positions. The Slate Committee knew how important these choices were, considering the issues from Bid Day, the strategic plan, and the new trajectory that Kappa was on—in order to improve and any other members needing further guidance during registration come back stronger. The committee worked hard to pick the best possible girls for the Spring 2013 semesterchapter council of 2017. She also organized study snacks The committee gave the slate presentation at meeting in November, and officer transitions began quickly after, and the house on Tuesday new and old Chapter Councils began working together. As usual, Kappas were able to come together to create a unified group of sisterhood and continued the "Smarty Pants" system from last yearfriendship.
Philanthropy Chairman Margaret Smith November turned quickly into December, with only one week in between Thanksgiving and Assistant Philanthropy Chairs Ellen Perkins Christmas breaks for some girls. Hailey Becker (VP Organization) planned a wonderful Leadership Day at a delcicious restaurant, where the new and Courtney Catalani worked old officers can get together to plan all chapter-wide philanthropy events. Margaret made some changes this year to our program with their advisors and go over the national philanthropy, Reading is Fundamental. She planned a Reading Festival expectations and goals for the whole upcoming year. Our chapter worked hard to attend to teach kids get through final exams and spend the day working end of the semester, with them and having Erin Kreindler (VP Academic Excellance) planning yummy Study Snack events throughout the weeks of finals! The Kappas wrapped up a long but fun with kidsyear. She also planned 2016 was a book drive so that each kid could take home a bookchallenging but incredible year for growth for the Beta Xi chapter. Margaret also helped plan Kappa Cookout in Despite challenges from the Fallhouse renovation, Pi Phi vs. Kappa philanthropy powder puff game in the springpolitical and campus climate, and our own behavioral issues and changes, our chapter grew stronger and got members involved with closer than ever, evolving to become the Wonderball where best chapter we went dressed up as princesses can be. We cannot wait to move into our beautiful new home, and helped we look forward to taking on 2017, equipped with face paint everything we have learned and costumes. Margaret provided the chapter with many other volunteer activities such as Kisses from Kappa on Valentines Day where goals we took valentine goodies plan to a retirement home. accomplish in the next year!
Sara Beth Tunnel, Event Chairman, worked hard to plan and schedule all of the social events for Describe the year. She worked very closely with Risk Management to plan events that would be safe recent changes on your campus and uphold describe the Fraternity standards. She found fun and unique venues to host events with other sororities or parents overall nature of Kappas. In 2012 she planned Kappa Pi Phi Monmouth, Kappa Mom's Weekend, Kappa Dad's Weekend, Kappa Date Dash, Kappa Chi O Owloween, Kappa Tri Delt Ranch, Kappa Parent's Weekend, Kappa Kidnap, and Kappa Cocktail. These events were fun, safe, organized, and help brought the your chapter closer together.
Kelsey KoentgesCampus climate was tense in 2016, Pubic Relations Chairmanas it was much of the world. Yet another Student Government election occurred on campus in the Spring, did this time with a Beta Xi running for office. Racial tensions and a great job new campus carry law caused protests and fractured our student body. The year culminated in one of helping keep members active and bridged the gap between most controversial Presidential Elections ever, occurring in November. Our own chapter faced some of the chapter, university, parents, biggest pitfalls and hardships we have ever faced. We lost loved ones and alumsmade mistakes. She created a monthy newsletter to send out to parents But through all of Kappas and the this, Beta Xi chapterKappa persevered together. She also planned the Easter We stood up for our beliefs and Halloween partyfor each other, both were held admitted our faults, and grew into a stronger chapter. Our chapter is well known at the house University of Texas for alumni being involved in and their childrenwell liked by all groups on campus. She helped organize the babysitting list Kappas are friendly, open-minded, intelligent and active in university life. Kappas are so well integrated and the Kappa Chirstmas card which involved in our diverse on-campus commitments, that our main goal in 2016 was sent out to other UT sororities increase Beta Xi chapter unity. In spite of a rocky campus climate and families of our own troubles within Beta Xi members. Kelsey also kept , we hoped to increase the system bond of sisterhood in our chapter. Doing so without a home during the "Round Up Newsletter which summarized the year house renovations proved to be a challenge, but our chapter did a great job finding ways to unite, around causes like our philanthropy and sent it out each other’s successes.Chapter Philanthropy:What organization(s) has your chapter historically/traditionally raised money for, or donated hours to the Chapter. , in your community?Wooldrige Elementary, RIF, B+ Foundation (new this year)
Kathryn UeckerThis year, Fraternity Education Berkley Johnson (Philanthropy Chair) completely revamped and re-energized our philanthropic efforts. ChairmanKappa 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 child battling cancer. We were paired with our Hero, was in charge of planning program nights at the houseMoriah. She provided is an eight-year-old girl with cancer, and the chapter with newest and youngest Beta Xi Kappa ever! She gets to wear our letters, come to some fun speakers events, and programs such as Zumba. Another large improvement was made by Kathryn by re-implement Senior Programming – a once be a month program night for Seniors in place part of meetingour Kappa family. Kathryn also planned Founders Day in October where the Beta Xi chapter recognizes embraced our newest sister with love and pride. Kappas made visits to her at the founding members hospital, had her over to our apartments, took her to Mozart’s Coffee Shop to see Christmas lights, made her a scrapbook and hosts an event battled her disease alongside her. 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 alumni our chapter, uniting us in the Austin areasome of our hardest seasons.
Mary Beth BurgherWe remained passionate about encouraging childhood reading, Membership Chairman, assisted as well! From profit shares organized by Sullivan Franklin-Mitchellchapter members to a book drive to our annual fundraiser, Isabel Dann, Molly Henson and Kat Schindler succesfully prepared we definitely did not let our passion for Recruitmentthis issue fall by the wayside. They held 3 recruitment workshops in the We have a great relationship with Wooldridge Elementary where we have our annual RIF event every spring to plan for recruitment the whole chapter. This year, Berkley added an event there in the fall. They also implemented new fun ways to celebrate recruitment such , as having members talk about their favorite parts of recruitment during well! Half the chapter meetings. They set up different committes and helped implement new change. Beta Xi greeted volunteered at the largest pledge class in Kappa history and we celebrated elementary school on a Saturday, while the new members on Bid Day by taking them other half gave their time to Abel's on the Lake for a fun dinnerNeighborhood Longhorns tutoring program.
Katie Satterwhite, New Member Chairman, worked hard alongside Avery Walker to integrate the new members into the chapter. They organized many different activities for the new members and helped bring them together as a pledge class and as a chapter. They taught the new members the traditions and history of Kappa. They worked alongside Caroline Cooper our Marshall to teach the New members the rituals of Kappa after Initiation. They made Inspiration week fun for the new members and helped Caroline with Initation.
Kelly Bowman, House Chairman, served as a liason between While we await the in opening of our newly renovated house girlson University Avenue, staff, and Miss Judi. She helped organize and clarify we have been renting rooms in the house points system UT Union building for chapter meetings and selecting 60 members of the for our chapter to live in the houselunches. She met It is usually a large meeting room with the staff screens and Miss Judi to make sure dining space in the house was running smoothly and attended house board meetings. Kelly provided gifts for the staff throughout the year. She also organized Sunday dinners for in house girls that were provided from local Austin restaurantsback.
Sarah Snelling, TreasurerOral HistoryAre there any current members, was in charge on handling the chapters finances. She worked extremely hard to make sure alumnae or advisers from your chapter that you recommend for the new Bill Highway system was working well and that members could understand how Fraternity’s oral history project? We are looking for Kappas with stories to use it. She was in charge tell – funny chapter memories, great professional achievement stories, heartwarming stories of the dues, budget for Chapter Councihow Kappa has helped them, and any other charges that needed to be made. She also worked to reinburse members and offiers and worked with favors to bill members through bill highwayetc.
Ksenia KolesnikovaKathryn Stouffer, Panhellenic Delegatecurrent member, served as the liason between Panhellenic outgoing PR Chair Sarah Shaw, current member, outgoing House Chair Tricia Cury, former president and recent alum Chandler Foster, recent alumHannah Meehan, 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. Council advisor
Campus: Beta Xi is very involved with the University ==Highlights of Texas. We try to promote members of the chapter to be involved in different organizations on campus. Many Kappas are members of honors societies such as the Dean's list or Order of Omega. A few Kappas participate in Student Government and the Texas Athletic program. There were a few changes that were made to our campus in 2012 such as adding new buildings, banning smoking on campus, and having the library open 24 hours a day. 2017==
Chapter: The Beta Xi chapter has many strengths Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma had an excellent year of growth and some weaknesses that we improved on bonding in 20122017. As In January, a chapter we are extremely unified. Throughout all grades girls are friends new group of Chapter Council members began meeting and spend lots carrying on thelegacy of time together. Every day you can see many girls across campus wearing Kappa shirts. We are extremely proud of our Chapter and members are very dedicated to Beta Xi. We lacked in communication between the Chapter and Chapter Council and we worked very hard to fix that and now have clarity between the twoexcellent, cooperative leadership our chapter has had in recent years.Hannah Love wasPresident, Tai Massimilian was VP Standards, Kaki Miller was VP Organization, Payton Scott wasVP Academic Excellence, Lauren Fisher was Recording Secretary, Emily Parnell wasCorresponding Secretary, Cameron Shepherd was Membership Chairman, Sarah Gregory was NewMember Chairman, Camille Szelc was Treasurer, Jennifer Harbour was Assistant Treasurer,Emma Riddle was Philanthropy Chairman, Hallie Smith was Event Chairman, Caroline Smyrl wasRegistrar, Grace Winston was House Chairman, Charlotte Fitzpatrick was Marshal, Audrey==Highlights of 2013==Halbrook was Risk Management Chairman, Regan Ewing was Panhellenic Delegate, TessaLauritzen was the Public Relations Chairman, and Allison Ainsworth was Education Chairman.The newly elected officers were very excited 2017’s Chapter Council has worked tremendously hard to implement our strategic plan to get into their positions for ourchapter back in good standing with both Kappa nationals and the 2013 calendar yearuniversity. After completing triplicate meetings in December, By far the officers all felt that they were ready most exciting thing for our chapter in 2017 has been being able to continue the great leadership that was be back in place before them. Our first order of business as Chapter Council was to create a Google Drive our newlyremodeled house! We have been so grateful for us to share. We were astounded by previous the chapter councils’ ability to work without Beta Xi House Board and all the technology we have today. As a chaptertime, money, we communicate much of our information through emails, Google documentsenergy, and thought that they put into the Kappa websiteplans to remodel our historic chapter house. We also employed Before the use beginning of school, the Gin system House Board hosted an open house for alumnae, donors, families, andmembers to provide all our information view the amazing changes to the entire chapterhouse. Our improved use of technology allowed It was such a special time for clearer channels Beta Ximembers of communication between officers all ages to come together and share in the chapter as a wholeexcitement of the opening.The very next In our first Chapter Council meeting we created our 2013 Leadership Action Planday, active members moved in, and the house immediately sprang to life. We spent time working on It has been such a plan that would guide us blessing for the chapter to chapter improvement have a common meeting grounds again and would help us hold each other accountable to share meals together,study together, and have our meetings as a chapter in our various officesthe house. Our first area was Self-Discovery and Intellectual and we chose Also in January, Hannah (President) began Chapter Council meetings by having all of ChapterCouncil read the Strategic Plan for our focus to be to support future career endeavors. We made 3 chapter’s Warning of Probation and review the goals andcalendar we had set for this area: implement Owl the semester. Some of the Week (an time for a chosen Kappa to describe her internship)our goals included improvement in chaptermanagement, recruitment, host a resume workshop new member experience and mock-interview sessionprogramming, standards and offer additional resources such as networking riskmanagement, and internship listspanhellenic leadership. Our second area was Interpersonal Development Hannah also scheduled and coordinated a meetingbetween Chapter Council and Katherine Latta, our focus was to increase chapter unity. Our three goals were family (plan 2 spring family events)Leadership Development specialist, fitness (encourage weekly workout classes at the Kappa house), and film (feature for a “Rom-Com” of the Month after study snacks at the house). Our third area was Leadership Strategic Plan workshop and Skill Building with a focus on clarity and transparencydiscussion over Start With Why , a book that all of Chapter Councilhad read over Christmas break. Our four goals were to increase chapter usage During our first Chapter meeting of the Gin systemsemester, make house points viewable and update them monthlyHannah wentover the strategic plan, keep a detailed record of the budgetemphasizing its importance for all members, and present information in a comprehensible and entertaining mannerreading our ChapterMission Statement. Our fourth area was Understanding Tai (VPS) also went over standards behavioral expectations during the firstmeeting and Appreciation of Kappa and we wanted to emphasize Kappa Then and Nowalso held elections for the new Standards Committee members. Our three goals were Grace (House Chair)organized an Orientation for the in-house girls from House Board to promote better understanding explain the rules andorganization of formal meeting, ritual, and the history of Kappa, expand the size of Pickers house. Grace and increase their involvement, and look Tai also gave a presentation to alumni for opportunities and guidance after collegethe chapter during the firstmeeting about respecting our newly remodeled house. We are proud Cameron (Membership Chair) also held aworkshop for the freshmen on a Sunday at the end of the month to say that all teach them the ins and outs of these goals had a clear presence throughout 2013, recruitment on the other side and we successfully followed through on them to make sure they will be implemented in emphasize the importance of our strategic goals for the future as well. recruitment process.In JanuaryFebruary began with a visit from our Leadership Consultant, the chapter was Maddy. Kaki (VPO) organized agreat week in the midst of getting adjusted to the new semester and Chapter Council. We received 2 new affiliatesAustin for her, Ella Coffey and Danielle Fenson, chapter council enjoyed spending time with her at the house and voted meeting with her individually to accept them into our chapter. Molly McConn, Membership Chairman, immediately got started on the recruitment process by recruiting freshman discuss ways to become Area Rush Captainsimprove each office. She also held a meeting for Hallie (Event Chair) andAudrey (Risk Management) planned a great Monmouth formal with the freshman in order to start teaching them about the rush processPi Phis at Palm Door. Willa Jolink, Education Chairman, planned Everyone had a cooking class for great night with their dates, dancing with the seniors to replace one of band all night and taking pictures inthe meetings that they are required to attendphoto booth. Willa Emily (Corresponding Secretary) also planned gave a presentation to the program night for January and brought in Kendyl Richards from Austin Smiles to speak about her non-profit and chapter on the importance of volunteering. Peyton Bivins, Public Relations ChairmanGIN system, worked on which the January newsletterofficers have been using more effectively throughout the year tocommunicate information to the chapter. The officers Sarah (New Member) also made a fun video finalized the plans for the chapter that introduced the new leaders and explained their positionsmember bid day retreat in the Fall, which was something that our chapter had never done before. It was a fun way She did an excellent job planning and communicating to get the New Year started!Chapter Council, and Reagan(Panhellenic) discussed our exciting plans with other chapters, who followed Kappas lead inFebruary began with our first “Romimplementing an off-Com” of campus retreat in their bid day plans rather than releasing the month on February 5thgirls aftermidnight. All March was another exciting month for Beta Xi with lots of the girls came events and activities for our actives to the house to watch a fun movie after study snacksallbond. There was a huge turnout and made Cameron (Membership) hosted another recruitment workshop for a fun night of bonding at the housefreshmen where shebegan to teach them the songs and dances. On February 10th we held “Rookie Rush” at Her and her team began to familiarize the house for freshmenwith more details of recruitment week. They also met with the freshmannewly appointed area assistant todevelop strategies. They were taught In the basics middle of recruitmentthe month, the doors of Kappa locked and all of the recruitment team worked with them to learn chants, chapterdispersed across the stack, country and the general recruitment process. All of the freshmen were so world for a fun-filled Spring Break! As soon as everyonereturned from their trips, Emma (Philanthropy) began getting everyone excited to meet for the new girls that could potential be our new Kappa membersupcomingphilanthropy opportunities. AdditionallyIn the week after Spring Break, every year we she encouraged the entire chapter toget their families and friends to participate in Kisses for Kappathe B+ Campaign. We donate and make goody bags of Hershey’s kisses to give to a local elderly home on Valentine’s Day. Catherine WilsonThe campaign was acampus-wide competition before the Round Up weekend, Philanthropy Chairand Kappa proudly raised around$4,000. Emma also planned our annual Pi Phi Kappa Karnival event, hosted at the Pi Phi housewith live music, snow cones, face painting, helped lead the chapter in making goody bags and delivering them to their lucky recipientsa petting zoo. It brightened Beta Xi raised $6,000 from Karnival todonate to RIF! During April, we said goodbye to our house mom, Ms. Judi. We are so grateful forthe day of the people living in years she spent making sure the Beta Xi house felt like a home and made Valentine’s Day special for all of the Kappa members that participated. Later in Hallie(Events) wrapped up the month, our biggest event of the year, Monmouth, was held on February 16th by planning an awesome Dad’s Weekend. The chapter enjoyeddinner with Pi Phi. The party was their dad’s at Dirty Martin’s on Friday, and the Hyatt Regency with huge success! We had next day everyone got to enjoy a face painter, photo booth, food, tour ofthe Kappa house and a band. It succeeded due to a lot private tour of work from Isabel Dann, Social Chairman, and Julie Parma, Risk Management Chairmanthe Darrell K. The Royal Memorial Football Stadium! We alsohad very productive chapter took buses to and from the event and safely enjoyed the eveningmeetings during March. On February 18th, Chapter Council met In fulfillment of our probation terms with the Alpha Xi Delta Chapter Council as University, we had an informative and interactive alcohol awareness presentation from UniversityHealth Services. Although it was a part of a Panhellenic sisterhood event that Sara Hollrequired program, Panhellenic delegate, planned the entire chapter found it interesting and organizedhelpful to understand the best way to socialize responsible in a college environment. Chapter Council Kaki (VPO)also went through the Standing Rules and By-Laws during their February continued to work on making Committee Chapter Council meetings and made sure Meetings a fun way for every member tofeel like they were up contribute to date and correct for each position. February 21st was our Chapter Retreat at Jump Streetchapter. The chapter rode buses out She restructured the Committee Night schedule to the event makesure that committees completed their agendas.In April, the semester was in full swing and we had a blast jumping on all another great month for Beta Xi. At thebeginning of the trampolines and playing dodge ball. February was a busy month, we welcomed our new house mom, Ms. Sherri to the Beta Xi house!We March opened with have loved the Province Retreat in Lubbock. Chapter Council got on a bus life, love and warmth she has brought to her house with her constant cheeriness andfamous shortbread. Nicole Covert, our Recruitment Advisor, received the A&M Kappa chapter council and headed out award for to meet with all the other Kappa chapters OutstandingAdvisor from University Fraternity and Sorority Life. Nicole is more than deserving of this award.Not only does she put in countless hours of work for our provincechapter, but she is an outstanding mom,friend, and volunteer. We all had a great time in Lubbock talking are so proud and thankful to have her as part of our amazing advisoryboard! Tessa (PR) also planned an Easter Party at the Kappa house, with other chapters and learning more about leadership in Kappa. Our chapter received the award for Best Ritual. Overallan Easter egg hunt,cookie decorating, pictures, it was a great bonding and learning experience for our chapter council more fun. Hallie (Event Chair) planned two great events duringApril. We had another fun semi-formal, Kite and helped kick start Key, with Theta at the month of MarchSummit. The first week in March was also House Mother Appreciation week. After our first meeting of the month we all wrote notes to our House MotherShe also plannedan awesome Mom’s Weekend, Miss Judiwith a shopping event at Adelante on Friday, to express our appreciation for her dedication to our a dinner at Max’s, andbrunch at the houseon Saturday. AdditionallyCameron (Membership) closed out the month with achapter-wide recruitment workshop, each day Macy Barnett, House Chairmanthe last workshop of the semester. In accordance with ourStrategic Plan, planned something special for Miss Judi. Spring Break was March 11-17 and the Kappas traveled across recruitment team updated the nation members on Panhellenic and abroad to enjoy the week off from school. Kappa NationalsrulesWhen we got back from Spring BreakIn May, our Leadership Consultant, Kristi Watts, came things at the Beta Xi house started to quiet down as all the members began to visit our chapter from prepare fortheir finals and the 17th semester came to the 22ndan end. She had a presentation and activities Before everyone dispersed for the chapter at our meeting on Monday. We also had summer. Allison(Education) conducted the Senior Sendoff, a program night humorous and sentimental event where Willa Jolink, Education Chairman, brought the Ransom Notes (an on campus a cappella group) seniorsget to sing share funny memories from their college years and share what their next chapter has in storefor our chapterthem as they leave UT and Kappa. On April 19th, Kristi Watts held The Alumnae Board also gave a Zumba class for presentation to the chapter before study snacks, and Lea Edwards, Registrar, hosted seniorsto tell them about the “Rom-Com” of opportunities the month Kappa alumnae network has for the chapterthem. March 22-24 was Round-Up weekend and all of Caroline (Registrar)also put them on alumnae status on Key Reports. Chapter Council ended the fraternities spring by settinggoals and sororities hosted fun philanthropy events and concerts throughout preparing for the weekendupcoming semester. On March 25th Grace (House) worked with the freshman had another recruitment event where each Area Recruitment Captain told Sophomores toget roommate requests for the chapter about the incoming freshman that they were excited aboutupcoming year. The girls made cute posters Sarah (New Member) and signs Cameron (Membership)continued to help people remember make plans for recruiting new members and making their namesexperience in Kappa thebest ever. On March 27th Peyton BivinsOver the summer, Public Relations Chairman, hosted our Easter party the members of Beta Xi parted ways for alumni and their kids. We had face paintingsummer school, games, candyinternships, and an Easter Bunny at the partystudyabroad experiences. Many Kappa alumni brought their kids Tessa (PR) collected photos from all the different adventures to the partypost on ourchapter’s Tumblr, Instagram, and other social media accounts. Cameron, her team, and it was the areaassistants worked extremely hard all summer to prepare for recruitment week, and all of their effortpaid off. We had a huge fun and successful work week and recruitment week in August. We happilywelcomed 73 new members to their home at 2001 University Avenue on Bid Day! Sarah’s plan forthe new member bid day retreat at Camp Balcones Springs was very well received, and all the newKappas had an enjoyable and safe time playing games and getting to know their new sisters intheir pledge class.In September, school came in full swing, and the chapter enjoyed spending time together, eatingmeals at the house, studying together, and attending football games. Chapter Council worked tomake sure that the New Members really felt that the Beta Xi house was their home on campus.Grace (House) got all of their fingerprints in our lock system, and Emily (CorrespondingSecretary) and Caroline (Registrar) entered their contact information into Key Reports and the GinSystem to make 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 ourfines from previous years! Before the first date event, Tai also gave a presentation to the entirechapter during meeting to lay out expectations and the standards that we hold each other to insocial settings. Hallie and Audrey planned our fun destination date event, Kappa Kasual, at theOasis. Although the event was cut short by the event staff for behavioral problems, ChapterCouncil took the opportunity as an experience to make a better Risk Management plan for themembers before date functions. Tai, Hannah, and Hallie gave a presentation at chapter meetingthe following week to re-emphasize the importance of safety during social events and the privilegeit is for us to be able to have these functions. We also used our 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 an excellent way for our members to come togetherand resolve a chapter-wide problem. Payton (VPAE) recognized the members who had received a4.0 GPA the previous semester during chapter and gave them a goody bag. Her and her committeealso decided to give goody bags to members who had made a 3.8, deciding that their hard workshould also be noted. Caroline (Registrar) also scheduled the composite photos for the chapter atthe end of the month.October was a busy month with many exciting chapter events to celebrate our heritage and history!Tai (VPS) and Audrey (Risk Management) continued to work on Risk Management policies forthe chapter and gave presentations before TX-OU Football weekend and our Owl-O-Ween Dateevent on safety and behavior. The members had a fun weekend in Dallas for the football game,spending time with each other and rocking all of their new Kappa t-shirts and gear made byFavors. Allison (Education) also planned a wonderful Founder’s Day dinner. The event was hostedat AT&T Conference center, and it was a great time for the chapter and Austin alumnae tocelebrate the history of our fraternity. We enjoyed a wonderful meal together, presentations fromthe advisors and house board, and music from Pickers. Charlotte (Marshal) and Emma(Philanthropy) rallied a group of our members to participate in Greek Get Down, a dancecompetition fundraiser hosted by AEPhi to support the B+ Foundation. The members whoparticipated had so much fun getting to know each other and representing Kappa at the event.Charlotte (Marshal) did an amazing job planning and coordinating Inspiration Week at the end ofOctober. The new members were put in their new Kappa families on big-little on Tuesday, Fridaywas Fireside, and on Saturday we happily initiated all of our new members as actives! Sarahplanned a brunch for the new actives and their families at AT&T following the ceremony. Beforeour Owl-O-Ween date event with Chi-O, Audrey put a new wristband process and bus buddysystem into place to make sure that we did not repeat the same problems we had at Kasual. Hallie(Events) planned the event at Clearport and the night was a huge success. Tessa also planned aHalloween Trick-Or-Treat party at the house for alumnae to bring their kids. The in-house girlsdecorated their rooms, put out candy, played with all of the kids, and had a great time!Nothing slowed down in November, with many events and lots of time together for the chapter tobond! Kaki hosted the Leadership Consultant, Casey, at the Kappa house and all of the officersenjoyed meeting her and hearing the ways that she thought we had improved within the last year.Hallie organized a fun Parent’s Weekend, with desserts on Friday night at Concrete Cowboy andBar-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 semester, Kappa Klassic, atSpeakeasy, and the chapter danced all night to the jazz band. Regan (Panhellenic) continued tomeet with Panhellenic to discuss changes to the bylaws and did an outstanding job of respectfullypresenting our chapter’s stance on the proposals. Our chapter also elected Riley Longtain as SlateChairman at the beginning of the month, and her and her committee put in so many hours pouringover applications and nominating officers for 2018. Elections were held, and we are so proud of andexcited for the 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 semester began to wrap up as the weather changed and finals approached. Kakiplanned a leadership brunch at the house for the old Chapter Council, the new Chapter Council,and their advisors. It was a wonderful time to share all of the accomplishments of the past year andto transition the new officers into their positions. Emma also planned the final Philanthropy eventfor RIF at Wooldridge Elementary. The upperclassmen contributed to a book drive that Kappadonated to the school. The underclassmen got to spend a Saturday morning at Wooldridge,playing basketball with the kids, painting their faces, and getting them excited about their newbooks. 2017 has been a great year of unity and growth for Beta Xi. We have so enjoyed being ableto spend time in our beautifully newly-renovated house, and we are excited for all the memoriesthat will come there in 2018!Describe the recent changes on your campus and describe the overall nature of your chapter.We welcomed a new football coach, Tom Herman, in 2017, and it has been an exciting time for ourteam as they continue to improve. There were also several emergency incidents on campus thisyear, causing the campus to unify and rally around support for mental health and campus safety.Our chapter is known on campus for being a well-rounded and open minded group of youngladies. We are proud to have so many members involved in other organizations and makingimportant changes on our campus and in Austin. Beta Xi allows its members to be the bestversions of themselves, and we love that those things are reflected in our house as 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 chapter choose 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.
April 1st started off with a resume workshop to help prepare for the upcoming round of job interviews. Caroline Cooper, VP Academic Excellence, hosted the event and everyone found it very helpful and informative. On April 5th Catherine Wilson, Philanthropy Chair, hosted our annual Kappa Pi Phi Powder-Puff game at the intermural fields to raise money for RIF. It was a huge success with a snow cone maker, prizes, and a raffle. Kappa won the game for the 3rd year in a row! On April 6th we had our annual Reading is Key party at Zavala Elementary School. Our chapter brought books for every kid hosted an afternoon party, complete with games, crafts, and face paint. On April 7th we had our third recruitment workshop with the freshmen and sophomores. The sophomores demonstrated their rush skills by helping them with the songs, dances, and noise level. Nancy Ellison, our PDC, who was regularly updated by Sullivan Franklin-Mitchell, Recording Secretary, attended our Chapter Council meeting on April 7th. It was fun for Chapter Council to chat with her and get to update her in person rather than through email.
On April 9th we had our “Rom-Com” ==Highlights of the month, which was right after study snacks and was a fun break for everyone. Soon after, Junior/Senior night was on April 11th. It was a special night where the upperclassman had dinner together at Iron Cactus and talked about all the fun memories they’ve had at Kappa. April 12-14 was our annual Mom’s Weekend. Isabel Dann, Social Chair, planned a fun weekend with a happy hour at a local store, Adelante, and a brunch at The Driskill Hotel. It was a great weekend spent showing our mom’s Austin and the Kappa house. On April 18th we had our very own, Kappa Kasual, as our second date party of the semester. It was a fun party at a local Austin venue called Haven, and girls invited dates and danced to the band. The next day we kicked off Dad’s weekend with dinner at Serrano’s. We ate fajitas on a patio and enjoyed live music under the stars. The next night we paired up with the Texas Cowboys to have an event at a local venue called The Stage. Overall it was a great weekend with our Dads. 2018==
On April 24th Caroline Cooper, VP Academic Excellence, planned a networking event at the house for all chapter members. 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 a local Austin movie theatre drive-in. They showed the film Grease and all the Kappa families carpooled together to see the movie. On April 28th the entire chapter participated in another Rookie Rush event. We all worked together in preparation for recruitment before the summer. Our last meeting of the semester was on April 29th, which included the Senior Send-Off during the meeting. This includes all of the seniors sharing a funny memory from their four years of being a Kappa. It was a bittersweet way to end the semester by saying goodbye to our beloved seniors.
Over The 2018-19 school year 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 new 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. 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 semester, focusing mostly on encouraging attendance and bolstering chapter morale throughout the year. To build a stronger community within the chapter, 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 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 Rush Captain Applications to be due at the 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. Emma (Philanthropy) began the application for GIRLS Academy, an opportunity for Kappa chapters to partner with and mentor young girls from a local middle school. As a chapter, Beta Xi raised over $1,000 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, based off of their requests and needs of the officers. 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 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 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 students through basketball, bracelet making, and of course, dance parties! Each student got to leave with a few books 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 summermonths. 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 took jobs 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 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 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 across over the world. Some traveled and Several members studied abroad, while others becoming familiar with the lifestyles in Spain, Italy, Croatia, and more. Older Kappas began internships and summer jobs, hoping to gain experience and make connections. Other members entered 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 advisors. The most notable part of their trip was the presentation by Lawrence Ross, who came to UT this 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 New Members eagerly explored their new home, eating meals together, studying in Austin or 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 the New Member information to input them into the various systems. Linda (Corresponding Secretary) also gave a 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 first committee night. 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 New Member meetings before chapter each week to educate the New Members on various aspects of Kappa, introduce them to the Chapter Council officers, and answer any questions they had. The Kappas attended their first date event in late September, a fun, ranch style joint date event with Tri Delta. Our chapter was approved for 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 house 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 YorkMembers 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 diving Ghostbusters to movie stars, everyone enjoyed dressing up with sharks 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 South Africa a mock trick-or-treat activity. Towards the end of the month, Kappas went back to Wooldridge Elementary to spending host their fall Reading is Key event. Everyone loved seeing the children again, and we even saw some returning faces! The month culminated with a sisterhood hangout with Kappa 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 afternoon 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 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 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 their families. The weekend culminated with Founder’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 Barton SpringsSummit. 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 represented all around an important time for transitioning. New Chapter Council members met with those who held their positions currently to 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 Kappa achieved in the last year. As a treat, Carter (VP Standards) and the Standards committee replaced the worldlast chapter with a sisterhood party. The house transformed into a Winter Wonderland as chapter members took a break from studying to enjoy 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!
August 12th kicked off Work Week for This year,the chapter in preparation for recruitment. The week was filled with fun events along with Texas Longhorns played a lot of time spend preparing. The Recruitment Team, led by Molly McConn, planned fun events for fantastic season and played against the chapter, such as a petting zoo Oklahoma Sooners in the key garden, while also organizing slide shows and bump group practicesBig 12 Championship at the AT&T Stadium. Throughout This was the week first year since 2009 that the seniors had fun skits that they presented Longhorns madeit to the chapter Big 12 Championship,and it was the rush team gave out fun prizes. August 15th was our Date Dash party first time since 1903 that was planned by Isabel Dann at Recess, a local venue. It was a fun break during Work Week, and some of the previously graduated Kappas joined two teams played eachother twice in one season.The Longhorns will go on to play the fun. August 21-27 was Recruitment Week for Georgia Bulldogs in the KappasSugar Bowl on New Year's Day. It was an extremely successful year with After a long campaign season and a new pledge class of 71 members. Everyone at Kappa was so excited to see all of runoff,Colton Becker and Mehraz Rahman were electedas the new members running down University Avenue toward the house when they got their bidsstudent body president and vice president. Tatum Jolink, New Member Chairman, planned a great Bid Night Our chapter is known throughout campusfor the new pledge class with dinner at Abel’s on the Lake being very involved in multiple school functions and a face paintingclubs. They got decked out in all new The traditional "Kappa gear "girl is known for being respectable,responsible,and had true to herself.Our house is a great night meeting their new Kappa sisters. And quickly afterlandmark on campus, the next morning was back and we take pride in welcoming people to school for a new semestersee thisspecial place.Our chapter supports Reading Is Fundamental,B+ Foundation
September started out with our first meeting back from school Our chapter has been raising money and formal pledging gathering books for RIF over the new pledge classlast few years. Lea EdwardsWe partner with Wooldridge Elementary to host a RIF event there twice a year, invitingstudents from the school to come play games, Registrareat snacks, put and get their faces painted.Each child leaves with books donated by our members. Throughout the information year,chapter membersvolunteer as mentors for all some of the new members into Key Reportsstudents at the school. Tatum Jolink We received our B+ Hero, New Member ChairMoriah, started holding pledge meetings after chapter meetings a few years ago,along with many other sororities and fraternities on Mondayscampus. She planned out a full semester of appearances from each Kappa officer to enhance understanding Moriah has become part of the inner workings of Kappa. Macy Barnettsisterhood, House Manager, updated and she is well loved by everyone in the Gin system, improving chapter.We spend lots of time taking her and her friends to participate in things around Austin as wellas hosting them to the house point system. Margaret Smithto paint, VP Standardssing, scheduled meetings to meet individually with each new memberor play hide-and-go-seek. It was Throughout the year,wealso a nice surprise when Caroline Cooper, VP Academic Excellenceraise money for the B+ Foundation through fundraising campaigns. As Moriah grows older, was one of six invited we are so lucky to attend have had the Academic Excellence conference at the Kappa headquarters. She had an excellent time strategizing with other VPAEs about grade improvement in each chapter chance to get to know her and learning ways to promote academic excellenceher family.
October started with Every year,we have multiple girls from our annual TriDelt/Kappa Ranch Date party on October 3rdchapter apply to ride for Texas 4000. It was held at Texas4000 is a new venue called Brazos Hall and people danced all night in cowboy boots. On October 7th the new members had an orientation with all non-profit organization that hosts one of the new members longest bicycle rides in the UT Panhellenic systemworld. On October 12th the The Kappas headed north to Dallas for the annual TX/OU weekend. This was the first year in 3 years that Texas pulled out a win who apply and everyone was very excited! On October 14th we had program night during our meeting and Willa Jolink invited the UT Slam Poetry team to come perform for us. It was a great way for the chapter to see a different side are accepted raise thousands of campus. Lea Edwards, Registrardollars, planned composites pictures to be taken on October 15-16. Everyone dressed up in black to take pictures in the side living room. On October 16th Chapter Council had training a fun dinner with all of ll year for their advisors at Santa Ritaride from Austin to Alaska. It was a great way for everyone to hang out with their advisor and meet the other advisors who do so much for our Our chapter. We celebrate Kappa Founder’s Day assists these members by postingon October 21st. Willa Jolinksocial media, Education Chairmanselling t-shirts, planned a wonderful event at the AT&T Conference center across from the Kappa house. We honored Kappa alumni and remembered our foundershelping raise money. We even had an appearance from the Pickers! On October 29th Peyton Bivins, Public Relations Chairman, planned the alumni Halloween party. All Not only are we incrediblyproud of the local alumni brought their kids dressed up for Halloweenour girls who take on this task, and we also commend our chapter hosted a party with trick or treating, face painting, for the outpouringlove and gamessupport they provide. On October 31st we had our annual party with Chi Omega called Owloween. It was at a local venue downtown Summer 2018 Riders:PeytonBertramand was a great way to celebrate Halloween as a chapter. LindaCastranova;Summer 2019 Riders:JulieDeLaRosa
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 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.
This has been a big year for the Beta Xi Chapter ==Highlights 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.2019==
This Several members of Kappa are a part of the peer buddy in Best Buddies. They ar epaired with an adult with an intellectual disability and he’s their"buddy"at all the events for the rest of the school year UT has experienced many changes. It is a great way for our members to stay involved in the community as well as make an impact in someone's life. I would say that all our members involved in Best Buddies have learned more from the program than they expected. Our head coach of members are also involved in our philanthropy,Reading is Fundamental. There is an event at Wooldridge Elementary School where members go hang out with the children at the football teamschool, paint their faces, make bracelets, draw pictures, Mack Brownplay basketball and everyone's favorite, retired from coaching after a very successful tenure at UTplay musical chairs. A new coach from LouisvilleThere are also other events we are involved in such as an online fundraiser for B+ Foundation, Girls Academy (middle school girls retreat on leadership, service, and respect), 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, Charlie Strongfundraising for Texas4000, replaced himdonated menstrual products to PERIOD. It will be interesting Each of our members are dedicated to see his their success and have achieved incredible things while at UT over the next few yearsUniversity of Texas. The UT Board One of Regents has been eventful to follow—with some our members disagreeing Bill Powerswas awarded a $1500 grant for thesis research, she is the co-president of UT. The City of Austin has Plan II student association, was also been growing at a very fast rate over awarded the past few years. There are many new buildings added to the skyline each year AJ and Lynda Hare Scribante Scholarship for $3000, and Austin is becoming a destination counselor for people around the worldDell Medical Summer Science Camp. Overall, Kappa is adapting to UT and Austin’s development and growth with ease, and We have a lot going on but we are excited all there to see what happens in the years to comesupport each other and help out when someone could use another hand.
==Highlights of 2014==
Upon electing the new officers for 2014, the new and old Chapter Council wasted no time in preparing for the year ahead. After completing triplet meetings in December, the officers all felt that they were ready to continue the great leadership that was in place before them. Our first two orders ==Highlights of business were to get everyone up to speed on the Kappa Google Drive, and to create a 2014 Leadership Action plan. Chapter Council completed these two items with outstanding efficiency and thoroughness, which set all the new officers up for a very successful year!2020==
In January, all the new officers Beta Xi chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma had a great beginning to the new year! Multiple members were awarded KKG foundation academic scholarships. Willa Jolink Ashley Duester (PresidentPC ’17) spent much was awarded the UT Sorority and Fraternity Life Office Outstanding Member of her time organizing and leading Chapter Council and Chapter meetings every Sunday and Monday2020 award. Her organizational skills and heart for Kappa helped everything run smoothly in Before the first month of her office. The chapter also welcomed two new transfers from Texas Tech and AlabamaCOVID-19 pandemic, which Willa Jolink (President), Tatum Jolink (VP Standards) we were lucky enough host a sisterhood basketball game in February and Leigh Robinson (Registrar) helped usher in. Tatum Jolink organized the first Sisterhood Monmouth date event of the semesteron March 2nd, 2020. After life started to change, bowling at the underground alley on campussisterhood events began to look more socially distant. On November 10th, which was 2020 we held a huge success! Becca Johnson (VPAE) also implemented sisterhood ice cream event at Zilker Park and a new system of gauging hot chocolate event in the academic success key garden during finals week in December. We continued to stay philanthropically involved by hosting a chapter drive-in donation to EJI in Spring 2020. Because of the new memberspandemic, which ultimately led to one of our best overall GPAs yet! Madalyn Brim (Membership) organized a successful first Rush Workshop to prepare we created operation plans for recruitment managing chapter facilities in the fall and began the process midst of preparing for COVID-19. We conducted a virtual work week, recruitment, and bid day. All new pledge class! Meghan Lowenfield member meetings, formal and reverse pledging ceremonies, and formal chapter meetings were held virtually through zoom (Chapter Education) treated informal chapter meetings consisted of a PowerPoint made by the Chapter members of chapter council and sent out to a Zumba Workout during the first program nightentire chapter). OverallFurther, the 2014 year initiation was off to a great start!completely virtual and combined into one ceremony.
In February, the new officers began to get The Chapter celebrated Founders Day with a brunch at 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 KKG House. Kappa Alumni were invited to see that we had raised our GPA significantly above come celebrate the all sorority average exciting day and was ranked 6th overall! The chapter celebrated share 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 each other the week power of Valentines Day, and partnered with Meghan McGowan (Philanthropy) to hold Kisses from Kappa, an event where the chapter writes Valentines to hospitalized childrenwomen. It There was a huge success, with the biggest turnout that both events have ever seen. Tricia Curry (Marshal) also held speaker who presented a Ritual Workshop to teach the entire chapter the little bit about Kappa rituals. This was extremely helpful to and the new members especially. Last, Kappa had their first formal history of the semester, Monmouth, with the PiPhis in late February. It was at a new venue on 6th street, it and all the girls everyone had a fun great time with their dates thanks to a lot of planning from Mimi Richardson (Events Chairman) and Sam Stavinhoa (Risk Management)in each others company.
March was a big month for the Beta Xi Kappas. Julie Parma (House Chairman) The chapter 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 outdatedcelebrate Kappa’s 150th anniversary with Founders Day. 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 Customized cups 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 napkins 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 made 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 guests 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 Founders Day as well as for the chapter active members to access. Meghan Lowenfield (Fraternity Education) also organized two fun events for use throughout 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 Kappasyear. 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 AprilFor our philanthropy we support B+ Foundation, Reading is Fundamental, Beta Xi did not slow down one bit in preparing for the end of the semester. Mimi Richardson (Social) worked with Theta to plan Kite and Keyvarious COVID relief organizations: Fuel Our Heroes, a beloved date party with the Thetas. Sam Stavinhoa (Risk Management) did a ton Communities in Schools of work with the bus policy for this eventCentral Texas, Boys and spent many hours contacting the bus company and thinking of new, innovative ways to take roll on the busesGirls Club. Additionally, Mimi Richardson helped plan fun Mom's RIF is our Kappa affiliate philanthropy and Dad's Weekends in AprilB+ supports children battling cancer. 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 As for AnnaCOVID relief participation, a charity we felt that Meghan McGowan (Philanthropy) has developed a relationship with. Michelle Nash (Public Relations) threw the annual Easter Party, pandemic was one of the greatest crisis of the chapter’s favorite opportunities our lifetime and we needed 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 help in the Kappa lot based on preference forms for the 2014-2015 school yearany way possible.
May signaled a slow down in Kappa events as finals approached and The chapter fund raised for the semester came to an end. Meghan Lowenfield (Education Chairman) conducted Senior SendoffEqual Justice Initiative, started a fun event after Chapter where we recognize the seniors and hear funny memories from their at KKG. Leigh Robinson (Registrar) also worked hard in obtaining all the graduating seniors’ contact information and put them on alum status in Key Reports. Tatum Jolink (VP Standards) also helped in getting the seniors to comply with the Senior Agreementsummer anti-racism book club, established a Diversity and she believes that the seniors were more aware of the requirements than in years past. Maggie Hood (Treasurer) worked hard in setting up the budget for the next school year. She met with all the officers individually and looked at past bills to determine the correct amount to allocate to each Inclusion position of the officer accounts. Maggie Hood (Treasurer), Willa Jolink (President) and Tatum Jolink (VP Standards) also worked hard to ensure that all accounts were cleared and everything was organized and squared away nicely for the chapter. Catherine Anne Prideaux (New Member) council and Madalyn Brim (Membership) both worked hard to prepare committee for the recruitment . All Diversity and the new members coming in August! Catherine Anne finalized Bid Day plans and worked closely with Caroline Wallace (Favors Chairman) to design fun t-shirts Inclusion positions and gear for the new girls to wear. Madalyn held the last recruitment workshop and began planning for the summercommittees were made permanent. Lastly, Mimi Richardson (Social Chairman) and Sam Stavinhoa (Risk Management) planned a fun End of the Year Party on a barge on Lake Travis for the Kappas! It was a huge hit and a great end to the school year!
Over the summerTo celebrate 150 years of Kappa, the Kappas parted ways to do internships, study abroad, hang out at home or take classes in Austin. All the girls, especially the officers, kept up a strong line of communication our education chair made gift packages and continued sent them to uphold the Kappa name all around the world. Five members of Chapter Council attended Convention over the summer with all of the Kappa chapters in our region. The girls gained a lot of great tips in how to better run our chapter! Madalyn Brim (Membership) and 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 Augustalumnae being honored. The team did a ton of hard work for the rest of the chapter, but also had a ton of fun in Austin! However, in August everyone was ready to get back to the Kappa house for another fun year of Recruitment, new members, date parties, meetings, In these gift packs were personalized Yeti cups and sisterhood eventsnotes.
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 Here is a link to the house on Bid Day! Everyone our Instagram that was so pleased with the girls run by our PR chair. It features pictures posted following public health guidelines and how we had gotten, and Catherine Anne Prideaux (New Member Chairman) was ready to begin integrating handled the New Members into social media aspect of the chapter! pandemic. https://www.instagram.com/texaskkg/?hl=en
September marked the first week 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!
In October, Beta Xi was brought the news that the house would officially be undergoing a major renovation in the 2014-2015 school year! The girls were all very excited about the prospect of a new and improved house, but many challenges did arise in terms of housing everyone in the chapter during the year that the house cannot be used. House Board and Chapter Council worked together to form a relationship with 2400 Nueces to get a block of rooms for the Kappas, find a house for Miss Judi and locate potential new meeting and recruitment spaces. Overall, the strong team mindset in Kappa made these challenges easy to overcome. Beta Xi also had another visit from the LC, Riley. Peyton Bivins (VPO) ensured she had a wonderful stay and the chapter benefitted from the news ideas that the LC had to bring. Meghan Lowenfield (Fraternity Education) planned and implemented Founders Day, a time to celebrate and commemorate the founding and history of Kappa. The tradition is beloved by the Kappas. On October 25th, Tricia Curry (Marshal) officially initiated all 78 of the pledges in a beautifully run ceremony. Tricia organized everything with ease and made it the most efficient Initiation Ceremony in the past years. Initiation marks the end of an 8-week education process of the new members. Michelle Nash (PR) held another successful holiday event, the annual Halloween Party at the House. 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 with a different Composite company for the next school year. She hopes to save money and increase composite quality with this switch! Tatum Jolink (VP Standards) Meghan McGowan (Philanthropy) and Alex Collins (Panhellenic Delegate) worked together to organize a Sisterhood event. At the event, girls decorated Thanksgiving cookies with Kappa Delta and wrote holiday cards to Dell Children’s Hospital. Mimi Richardson (Events Chairman) planned Parents Weekend and 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) and the Slate Committee had elected new girls to serve on Chapter Council, and the groups began working together to transition all positions over smoothly. The 2014 Chapter Council is extremely excited to see what the new Chapter Council will do in 2015!==Highlights of 2021==
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 their schoolwork done and finish with great GPAs. Slowly but surely, girls began to move out of the house to return home for 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 our campus have made it increasingly important In 2021, the Beta Xi chapter continued to be technologically savvy. With thrive despite the influx complex environment of media and technology that has come about in the past couple yearsevolving pandemic, students must utilize these avenues to be successful at and the University chapter was a place of Texasrefuge for its members. In other newsthe early spring, chapter members stayed connected through virtual chapters and outdoor sisterhood events including a coffee bar in 2014 we hired the KKG courtyard and a new football coachprofit share with a delicious ice cream sandwich truck to raise money for our philanthropies. Later in the semester, Charlie Strongthe chapter had its first semi-formal in over a year. The students has have begun event was split up by grade level and members and their dates were COVID tested prior to call themselves "Stronghorns" the event. 87 members had 4.0s in the spring semester, and the chapter raised thousands of dollars for philanthropies including RIF, B+, Allies Against Slavery, and all have made National Coalition against human trafficking. In the summer, Recruitment week was an incredible effort exciting time for the chapter. It was the first time the entire chapter was able to stand behind be together since early 2020, and support this new football erabonds were formed while old bonds were strengthened. We are hoping for some big football wins In the fall, chapter events and meetings were once again in 2015! -person. The return of Kappa lunch was welcomed by the chapter, as members were once again able to spend time together eating and studying at the Kappa house.
Chapter: The nature of our chapter is something that we are most proud of . We are known as campus as being friendly, welcoming and bright. We still maintain a highly admired reputation among both Greeks and non Greeks, 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 a long road to work with the House Board, advisors, and Miss Judi to enforce the rules surrounding this. We began doing room sweeps 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 and all the girls have completely supported our Standards Chair and President in this challenge, and our chapter is now stronger a whole.
We hold Chapter PhilanthropyIn the spring, the Beta Xi chapter raised money to help Austin’s homeless during the winter storms and raised $20,000 for two organizations that combat human trafficking. Throughout the year, our chapter meetings in supported the B+ Foundation, which supports the large downstairs living room families of the KKG House on University Drivechildren who are fighting cancer. This fall, Christiane, an honorary Kappa who has Batten disease, joined our chapter. We normally move She frequently visits the furniture Beta Xi house for Kappa lunch where she eats and bring in chairs to ensure that everyone has a comfortable place to sitsocializes with chapter members. The chapter owns our House, which maintains a Historical Landmark status in Texasalso had several canned food drives.
We have had our red brick house on University for decades now. The girls have the opportunity to live in the House both their junior 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, we have chapter had one other chapter owned house, which was formerly on the corner of 24th of Rio Grande, the current site of a gas station. The chapter is looking forward walk to a massive renovation of our house in 2015 raise money for NEDA and 2016, a 15 month project to update it and revamp it. This will cause member s to not be able to live in the house in fundraised for the 2015-2016 school yearJed Foundation.
==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 DelegateDiversity, Kathryn Stouffer was PR ChairEquity, and Anna Wittenmyer Inclusion2021 was Education Chair. Tricia Curry (President) kicked off the year by efficiently planning and leading CC meetings. The first few orders 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 full year ahead. 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 Beta Xi and the spring semester was in full swing. Avery Travis (Marshal) led a successful ritual workshop that was an extremely helpful refresher for the entire chapter. Catherine Anne Prideaux (VPAE) received the fall grades and found that our chapter GPA had risen since last semester and there were also 30 girls with 4.0’s from the fall! Rachel held another great Rush Workshop with both freshman and sophomores to begin preparing for recruitment and began developing having a strategy with area assistants. Sam Stavinoha (VPO) worked hard to plan for the leadership consultant’s upcoming visit in April. On program night the DEI chair on chapter heard very valuable career advice from Lori MacNeil from Career Onwardcouncil. Lori talked about the importance of resumes, LinkedIn accounts, and overall social media identity. The chapter was very receptive to her talk and learned a lot about professionalism. Sarah Cordill (Philanthropy Chair) planned another successful fundraiser with Pi Phi during round up. The event, called Kappa/Pi Phi Carnival, was our biggest philanthropy event of the year and actives and guests attended with a petting zoo, face painter, snow cones, and more. Hudson Moore performed and the event raised around 1000 dollars for our philanthropy. It was so much fun and a huge success. 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 chapterShe promoted university-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 diversity and advice on how we could improve. We also held a ring ceremony at an April meeting for one of our seniorsinclusion seminars, Becca Oertlispeeches, 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 kidsstudent organizations. 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 the semester came to an end. Anna Wittenmyer (Education Chairman) conducted Senior Sendoff, a fun event after chapter where we recognize the seniors and hear funny memories from years past. Michelle Nash (Registrar) also obtained all of the graduating seniors’ contact information and put them on alum status in Key Reports. Elise Roth (Treasurer) worked hard to set up the budget for the upcoming school year, and held budget meetings with all of the Chapter Council officers. Annie Bernica (New Member Chairman) and Rachel Theilmann (Membership Chairman) both worked hard to prepare for recruitment and the new pledge class coming in August. Annie worked hard to finalize bid day plans for the new 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 year. 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 to the University of Texas 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 and fun for everyone. We DEI presentations 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 members. 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 given during 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 Kidnapincluded promoting national heritage holidays. 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) DEI chair 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 composites, 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 smoothly, 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. 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 gave 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) was elected slate chairman, and worked extremely hard to conduct meetings with the slate committee to nominate the officers for next year. She gave the slate DEI 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 during work 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 a new president, Gregory L. Fenves, 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 friendly, open-minded and well liked by all groups on campus. Our main goal in 2015 was to increase chapter unity despite the house renovations, and our chapter did a great job finding ways to be together in the face of those challenges. Chapter Philanthropy: What organization(s) has your 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 spring. The kids are always very excited about the event and the Kappas are always eager to make a difference face-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)'''
==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.
==Highlights of 2016==
2016 was a year characterized by strength, endurance, and evolution for Beta Xi. Still without our
beloved house, the Kappas faced new challenges, bound together by friendship instead of the walls
of the house itself. The campus climate was tumultuous. The chapter itself stumbled and fell on a
few occasions. But as the year comes to a close, we can look back and say that in spite of all of
that, we learned and we grew. We are finishing 2016 stronger, more unified, and better than when
we began it. We are excited to move into our house come January! But before we transition into
2017, we want to look back and reflect on all we learned.
(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 “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.
Then came March, another great month for Beta Xi, as the spring semester was in full swing. Hannah
Love (Marshal) led a successful and efficient ritual workshop to refresh the chapter on the ritual
and history of our organization. Erin Kreindler (VP Academic Excellence) continued to encourage the
girls to study hard, with fun Study Snacks events like pizza catering and coffee after chapter!
Riley continued to hold Rush Workshops with the freshman and the older girls to prepare for
recruitment and develop a strategy to show girls what Kappa is all about, despite our lack of a
house. Hailey Becker (VP Organization) worked hard to plan for the leadership consultant’s upcoming
visit in April.
Our meeting on September 9th was program night; it was special because a member of our chapter, Barbara Gass, discussed her experience biking from Austin, Texas to Anchorage, Alaska to raise money for cancer research meets every Monday at 6 pm in Texas 4000. Kappa Kidnap was our second event of what we call the year on September 12th. It is a very exciting event "Great Room" in which the house.At 5pm, we offer chapter is unaware of dinner to the location of the event until we arriveentire chapter. This year it was hosted about As dinner comes to an hour outside of Austin at the famous Coupland Dance Hall. Girls wore cowboy boots and dresses and danced the night away. Parent’s Weekend was September 20th and 21st. On the 20th we hosted a fun party with the Texas Fiji’s at a local venue called The Stage. There was a fun band and games. On Saturday night Catherine Wilsonend, Philanthropy Chair, planned Kappa Cookout. Every year we have barbecue at the house and invite our parents and friends to come by after the football game to raise money for Reading is Fundamental. It was a huge success with a band playing HouseBoys assist us in moving the key garden tables and the house set up in chairs from a football theme. On September 27th Tatum Jolink, New Member Chair, planned the new member retreat. She hosted it at the house and cleared out all dining room setting to more of the furniture. The new members played games and watched movies and all got to know each other even better. September was a full month of fun and educating new memberspresentation-style setting.
Our members are involved in certain programs and clubs on campus and a majority hold officer positions in those organizations. A few of the things they have worked to accomplish include improved transition for freshman Plan II students by creating new activities and opportunities for involvement, contributed to enrichment and closeness of Greek community, donated 300 books to Wooldridge Elementary, and provided support, education, and leadership to Wooldridge students, B+ hero, and summer camp kids. 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 core values of Kappa Kappa Gamma. Hosting RIF events and book drives connects us with our sisters within the chapter and throughout the nation. We chose the B+ Foundation because it is a local philanthropy that we can participate in with other sororities and fraternities on the University of Texas campus.