Alpha Gamma Delta

Elections

2024-26 International Council Candidates

The Fraternity Elections Committee is pleased to introduce the ballot for the 2024-26 International Council.

The primary responsibility of International Council is to provide strategic leadership in creating the future of our Fraternity, ensuring accountability of the Chief Executive Officer to International Council and of International Council to our members. International Council members have the responsibility to ensure that Alpha Gamma Delta continues to move strategically forward in pursuit of the Fraternity’s goals. An overview of the roles and responsibilities of International Council can be found at: alphagammadelta.org/elections. 

Candidates for International President:
Catherine Matthews
Andrea Pendleton Candidates for International Vice President:
Adrienne Kerr Beckett
Kalina Haynes
Jessica Keesee
Jennifer Smentek Mores
Andrea Pendleton
Carol Richards Peske
Dani Picciotti
Klazina van den Berg
Jolie Graves Webb
Linda Mabry Wilkinson AdrienneBeckett-circle

Adrienne Kerr Beckett

Candidate for International Vice President

Charlotte, North Carolina
Zeta Omicron-Kettering University

Wearer of the Crescent

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

My desire to serve on Council is an expression of support and appreciation for Alpha Gamma Delta. Who I have become and those I count as my closest friends are because of our Fraternity. When I became confident as a leader, I was leading in Alpha Gam. My aim is to give as many women as possible an opportunity to discover and create what they want for their lives. We must honor our legacy and heritage, embrace divergent ideas, explore new ways of doing familiar things, and bring a wider group of women together. With change comes opportunity, and I aspire to use my skills and experiences to help guide the Fraternity through our next period of growth and sustainability.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

Alpha Gamma Delta’s values, mission, and sisterhood have shaped my adult life. Since my time as a collegian and later working in a variety of volunteer roles with the Fraternity and Foundation, Alpha Gam has provided me with perspective, appreciation, skills and aptitudes, and a continuing desire to help empower women.

As an alumna volunteer, I experienced how Alpha Gam provides opportunities for our members to continue the lifelong experience through service. Serving as an Advisor, I learned to appreciate the ever-evolving realities today’s women face as they come to college and navigate their newfound independence. The last seven years serving on the Foundation Board helped me value our culture of philanthropy and the impact our members can make no matter where they live and work. All these experiences together have given me key insights into where member and organizational issues intersect and where we have opportunities to better connect the Fraternity to its membership.

As a professional, my executive roles developed my strengths in leading large organizations, working with a variety of people, balancing strategic aspirations and operational realities, and maintaining fiscal responsibility. As our world continues to evolve at a faster pace, we must be adaptive to be a sustainable organization long into the future. I am prepared to leverage my broad experience, skills, and love of the Fraternity to keep Alpha Gamma Delta vibrant.

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Financial Literacy:
To succeed in my professional endeavors, financial literacy has been critical. In my current role, I manage manufacturing plants producing over $6 billion in sales, and I am accountable for managing nearly $1 billion in product inventory. During my time running a factory, success depended on having a detailed knowledge and understanding of all aspects of the operation; the more we produced at higher efficiency turned into more resources the plant had to operate and to make improvements to equipment and facilities. In one of my factories, I was able to manage our operations and investments across the facility, so we had the money available to remodel the extremely dated and neglected women’s restroom. While that work was certainly about improving the building, it also sent an important message to the women on my leadership team and the women in the factory that their environment was just as important as the rest of the building.
Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

There is no shortage of volatility in the current collegiate environment. One of the most immediate challenges to Alpha Gamma Delta is the combination of declining college enrollment and generational changes in organizational affiliation. As higher education continues to evolve and as our traditional pool of potential new members contracts, we will need to consider how to best position Alpha Gam for continued longevity. We will need to look at the world with new eyes and to be leaders in progress for ourselves and the Greek community. Through my significant experience implementing change, both in my professional roles and my Alpha Gam leadership roles, I have learned how to study information, gather experiential feedback, develop prototypes and action plans, and refine the plan through launch. Our International Council can best serve our organization by writing policy that is focused on outcomes and allows for iteration in implementation and operation while also safeguarding our values. By so doing, Alpha Gam will have the latitude to test and tune alternative approaches to offsetting these membership headwinds.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

One of the most difficult parts of becoming a woman is forming one’s own sense of self and developing the confidence to live into it. The pressures today from social media, gender stereotypes, culture wars, and political fragmentation have made it even harder. The collegiate years are a laboratory for young women to explore academic subjects and potential careers, social situations and pressures, larger leadership roles, friend and romantic relationships, financial issues, and on and on. We are connected through our commitment to our sisters, so when we go through the exploration with other women who understand, listen, share hard truths, and stand by us through it, that is unique. In addition to the relationships, sorority provides quality programs to equip members with tools to make good life decisions, build leadership skills, and grow confidence. The sorority experience is like no other because our primary goal, and every part of what we do, is to help women flourish in all aspects of their lives – and throughout their lives – to confidently go forth in the world.

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Kalina Haynes

Candidate for International Vice President

Arlington, Texas
Mu-Brenau University

Wearer of the Crescent with Diamonds

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

I made a promise to myself in all of my Alpha Gamma Delta volunteer positions that I would always focus on making our Fraternity better than when I pledged back in 1995. I would like to continue to working on these areas. The first area of concern is retention of collegians and alumnae members. National Panhellenic Council is dealing with contraction. In many cases, this is impacted by the enrollment cliff at colleges and universities. This requires International Council members to make sure parts of the strategic plan are executed to ensure collegians and alumnae stay engaged with Alpha Gamma Delta. We need more development programs implemented to meet their needs. It would also be beneficial to learn from other organizations how they successfully rolled out the programs to retain members. The growth of our Fraternity must continue to be at the forefront of NPC decisions to increase recruitment enrollment on campuses. I want to be a part of selecting the right sisters to volunteer with NPC. This will help grow communities across the board and boost our membership numbers. Also, I want to make sure I am working with a team of International Council members willing to propose and support NPC legislation key to growth. Another big area of concern is making sure we are bridging the generational gap with our sisters. I appreciate the diversity of the current International Council board; we bring to the table different Alpha Gam experiences and connections to different generations of sisters. I want to continue to understand what is important to our collegians, individual chapters, alumnae, and alumnae groups to sustain that connection for decades. This will only improve our growth for the future. It is also important for all of these groups to understand other points of view so we can work collaboratively tackle any challenges that may lie ahead. Finally, trust and respect are key aspects to any relationship. I’ve learned to respect the leaders I trust the most because we’ve had candid conversations about my personal and professional goals. These leaders also taught me that you must be flexible and meet people where they are when addressing any issues. I want my sisters to trust that I do have their best interest at heart in any role I have serving the Fraternity, especially as a member of International Council.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Integrity and Accountability:
My strongest core competence as a leader is Integrity and Accountability, but I am proud of my Relationship Building skills and the way I express Respect of Others. It is hard for many leaders to admit they need to research or ask more questions about a topic. It is often perceived as a sign of weakness. I find this to be a sign of strength. If timing allows, I try to be honest about my hesitancy and need for more time to investigate and review a situation. This recently happened with a work project. I didn’t feel like everyone involved understood the plan, so I held a brief meeting to make sure we understood our responsibilities. After we completed the project, we reconnected to discuss how we could execute things better the next time. I hope my efforts earned more respect and trust among my peers. Respect for others and their ideas is necessary. So many leaders created a safe space for me to flourish as a member and share my ideas. I also mentioned previously that trust and respect are key aspects of any relationship. It allows diverse ideas to come to the table and gives opportunities for the best plans to be executed. As the NPC Recruitment Response Team Lead for four campuses in the Fall of 2020, at times, I felt unsure of our plan to execute virtual recruitment. I brought ideas to the table with the Fraternity Sorority Advisors, Panhellenic Presidents, & Recruitment Chairs. I admitted to one group on a virtual call that this task seemed overwhelming because we were in the middle of the pandemic. A Panhellenic President once emailed me asking to switch to weekly meetings vs bi-weekly meetings. Her reason surprised me. She said that I inspired good ideas and ways to execute them. She wanted to keep the momentum going hoping it would carry over to Primary Recruitment. I would like to say that I brought dynamic ideas to the table, but I learned that admitting the situation was challenging made her have more faith in me. This exchange with the Panhellenic president reminds me of a May Angelou quote, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This is so true when it comes to a group of leaders coming together to work as a team or when it comes to listening to someone you meet on the street These two examples show why I like to focus on Relationship Building. My grandmother always tells me that I am a person who has never met a stranger. I enjoy meeting people, appreciating what’s important to them, and understanding how we can learn from each other. People are more honest when you’ve built that relationship, respect their opinion and can be open about your thoughts on different issues. People who feel seen want to be a part of a team, and this is another aspect Alpha Gam needs as we focus on the future. Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

A challenge Alpha Gamma Delta & Greek life continues to face is keeping diversity, equity, & inclusion at the forefront of our mission. Some people may see it as a trendy values statement, but thoughtful implementation of DEI policies helps organizations respect all of their members. The topic of being supportive of all members & potential new members’ races, ethnicities, religions, genders, sexual orientations, disabilities, & socioeconomic status will always be top of mind for me because I’ve always felt valued and seen for who I am by nearly every member I’ve encountered. I say nearly because there is more work to do in this area. Acknowledging and understanding the policies within Alpha Gamma Delta and National Panhellenic Council that support cultural differences, personality differences, and generational differences are the best steps to increasing diversity awareness. Our Fraternity must create forums so our members can learn how to increase diversity awareness. Education by DEI professionals who can show all of our members how to respect & embrace our differences is also key to ensuring growth in this area. One thing I’ve learned from recently taking a continuing education class on this topic is everyone & every business is a work in progress when it comes to DEI. An organization should frequently review policies to make sure the guidelines are not outdated. It is imperative that the members of International Council be leaders in evaluating the areas of our Fraternity to create a sense of belonging, discuss how to improve, and lead the charge of making the changes. This only encourages diversity at all levels of our Fraternity.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

The greatest challenges facing women today are mental wellness and work-life balance. Many of us didn’t realize joining a sorority would create a group of people who invested in your mental health; these sisters would help you thrive through college and your alumnae years. I am grateful that I’ve always felt like I’ve had a support system. Today, there are several resources available to our collegiate members. The addition of the Vice President Chapter Wellness, education created by Alpha Gam staff members and harm prevention committee, online programming, and access to mental health professionals are all key to our members’ well-being. I know there is so much Alpha Gam can provide, including a program on identifying mental illness, meditation & mindfulness classes, and talk therapy. I would like to see Alpha Gam step up more talk therapy resources for all of our members. I am among many of the Fraternity’s members who could benefit from some coaching in balancing work and life. The benefits of this will help our members become more efficient, find meaningful activities, and implement ways to ease stress. I also believe this programming should be available to our collegians and alumnae members. Getting help from a coach in work-life balance can also help confront feelings of guilt, teach members how to avoid perfectionism, and develop confidence to stop procrastination.

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Jessica Keesee

Candidate for International Vice President

Decatur, Georgia
Gamma Phi-Georgia Institute of Technology

Wearer of the Arc with Diamonds

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

I have volunteered with Alpha Gamma Delta for the majority of my alumna life. I’ve served in various roles for the last 19 years. I’m grateful for and have loved the experience. I would be honored to serve the Fraternity in a role where I could help shape policy and set the vision of Alpha Gamma Delta. I believe that in serving on International Council, the extensive and present-day collegiate-level experience and perspective I would bring to the group would further our shared vision of serving our members throughout every phase of their lives.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

Chapter Advisor, Gamma Phi Chapter, Georgia Institute of Technology (2010 – Present)

For the last 19 years, I’ve had the privilege to serve as an advisor at Gamma Phi, and in 13 of those years, I’ve served as the Chapter Advisor. Gamma Phi is located in Atlanta, Georgia at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Gamma Phi is a moderately large chapter (structure D) with chapter total ranging from 190-200 members. We have a chapter house that sleeps 48 women, offers a full meal plan, and employs several full and part-time staff (including a Chef and a House Director). Gamma Phi is not part of the Fraternity House Corporation and instead operates under a House Association.

In my role as Chapter Advisor, my time is split between the leadership development of officers/chapter members, advisor recruiting and training, and managing the ‘business’ aspects of the chapter (e.g., overseeing approx. $1M income, hiring and managing chapter staff, and ensuring compliance with all tax, insurance, and reporting requirements). During my time as Chapter Advisor, I have assisted the chapter with navigating the construction of a new chapter house (nearly doubling resident capacity to 48), chapter growth from 80 to 200 sisters, campus extending twice, as well as several changes in campus professionals. Through all of these years and changes, I’ve learned how important it is to foster relationships with our collegiate officers and advisors, execute initiatives that are both sustainable and responsive to the chapter’s needs and campus culture and train officers who have the confidence and knowledge to trust their decision making abilities and leadership skills.

Law firm partner (2020-Present)

I have practiced intellectual property law since 2009 and was elevated to Partner at my firm in 2020. Before becoming an attorney, I worked as an engineer in the medical device space for six years. Though improving, both engineering and patent law are highly competitive, male-dominated fields. While I take pride in my professional accomplishments as a female in these industries, I’m not blind to the privilege that comes with being able to attend both engineering and law school. I am grateful for the attorneys and engineers who invested their time in my training, and I intentionally prioritize the mentoring of young attorneys, especially women, to help them reach their potential. With this mindset, I approach being a partner at my firm as an opportunity to ‘pay it forward’ and invest in the young attorneys in my office. Prior to becoming a Partner, I served on the DEI and Recruitment Committees.

I currently serve as the Education/Professional Development Committee Chair for the firm and also as the Mechanical Practice Group Chair. As the Education/Professional Development Committee Chair, I developed a first-year curriculum for our junior attorneys and coordinated weekly training sessions. Training our junior attorneys in the practice of law not only ensures that we provide excellent work for our clients but also improves attorney retention and engagement. I am also responsible for coordinating monthly case law updates and presentations within the firm, ensuring that all attorneys are current on recent decisions out of the Federal Circuit and Supreme Court.

Being a partner has also introduced me to the business side of practicing law. I regularly participate in meetings where the economic priorities and business issues of firm operation are discussed and decided upon. I regularly work with clients to set budget predictions and manage the financial aspects of their IP portfolio.

GIPA, DEI co-chair

I serve as the Co-Chair of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee for the Georgia IP Alliance (GIPA). GIPA is a non-profit organization that advocates for intellectual property and innovation in Georgia. While the committee’s aim is to support creators (inventors, artists, etc.) and the professionals who assist them with protecting their intellectual property, I have worked primarily on initiatives to advance the efforts of diverse undergraduate students and law students in the Atlanta area and support them as they transition into law firm/corporate practice. The committee has led initiatives to sponsor students to take the Patent Bar Exam and provided scholarships for diverse students. I personally coordinate a yearly mock interview program for diverse students in conjunction with the Southeastern IP Job Fair. Students are paired with IP professionals, providing them an opportunity to make important professional connections and prepare for future job interviews.

Pro Bono Attorney, KIND (Kids in Need of Defense) (2018-present)

In 2018 “Chef Jeff” (celebrity chef Jeff Anderson) spoke at Convention and shared how food insecurity impacted his life. Closing his presentation, Chef Jeff said that “your legacy will be defined by the people you help” and challenged us to change up the demographics of the women we mentor. With that inspiration, and after hearing the stories of families separated at the US-Mexico border, I was compelled to volunteer with KIND.

As a pro bono attorney with KIND, I represent children seeking asylum in the United States. This involves mountains of paperwork, briefing, and ultimately arguing cases to the US Customs and Immigration Services, Homeland Security, and Federal Courts. My first case was with a young girl who left Guatemala with her father fleeing gang violence. It has been humbling to work with this young woman, and I am inspired by her strength and spirit of hope. Unfortunately, her father passed away in 2021, leaving her alone. While we are awaiting a hearing on her asylum case, we are urgently working on legal routes to bring her mother to the United States while her asylum case is decided. Though her case is far from over, she is an amazing young woman, and I can only hope that I have helped in some small way to impact the trajectory of her life. In 2020, I was recognized by KIND as the 2020 Pro Bono Attorney of the Year for the Family Separation Team.

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Integrity and Accountability:
As a Chapter Advisor, I have been heavily involved in the CIMS (Change in Membership Status) and Membership Selection processes at Gamma Phi over the last +13 years. In every discussion, I emphasize how vitally important it is to maintain not only the integrity of the process but also our personal integrity as officers and advisors. This includes maintaining member and EC confidentiality and having difficult conversations in a way that’s respectful and kind but also holds folks accountable to the rules of the process and the promises they made to each other as sisters. It can be very uncomfortable sometimes for us to have difficult conversations with and about our friends and people we care deeply about. And it’s possible that our feelings will cloud our judgment or urge us to make an exception that’s not in the best interest of the chapter. As the Chapter Advisor, it’s important that I’m able to separate my personal feelings and refocus CIMS/membership discussions on the facts and full context of the situation. I’m a partner at my law firm, and with a partnership role comes a commitment to the other firm attorneys and to our clients that I have integrity in all aspects of my work. One way that I maintain this integrity is by dealing with mistakes with honesty and transparency. I firmly believe and have experienced that holding myself and my team accountable for our mistakes helps to build trust. If a mistake happens, I will personally call the client to inform them and then do everything I can to make it right. The client might be upset with me or the situation, but I believe it’s absolutely imperative to be honest and ethical in my client dealings, even when it’s embarrassing or uncomfortable. For the last year, I have served as the Mechanical Practice Group Leader at my law firm. My firm practices exclusively intellectual property law (e.g., patents, trademarks, trade secrets), and all of our attorneys have either an engineering or science background. To help with workflow, productivity, and training, we divide the firm into “practice groups” based on technology area. As the Practice Group Leader, I’m responsible for managing workflow to ensure that we are meeting the commitments we made to our clients in a way that is sustainable long term. As you may suspect, most attorneys have type A personalities. We have a very hard time saying “no” to our clients (or firm leaders) and tend to overcommit ourselves. Because we’re people pleasers and hold ourselves to sometimes unreasonably high standards, we tend to feel a great deal of shame when we are running late on work deadlines. Rather than ask for help, we bury ourselves in our work at the expense of our personal well-being and relationships. In my role as a Practice Group Leader, I have really tried to create a culture where we shift our mindset to one where we are bringing our “whole person” to work. In order to do that, the entire team has to be committed to showing up in service of our work and each other. This means we regularly re-assign work to make sure everyone’s workload is manageable, that we honor the promises we made to our clients, and that we see our team members as humans with lives and not just cogs in the machine. This might not sound revolutionary, but in a law firm setting, it is very common to hoard work and never admit to your manager that you’re behind or struggling. It can feel uncomfortable to show vulnerability, but I believe that a team built on a foundation of trust and teamwork is better both for the team members and the client. Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

Having worked closely with our Officer Board and Chapter Presidents for the last 13 years, I have grown to fully appreciate the particular challenges and responsibilities placed on these officers. Most recently, I have seen officer teams struggle with the challenges of making sorority and Greek life relevant to today’s college students. Campuses across North America are seeing a decline in participation in the sorority/fraternity experience. On International Council, my goal would be to help shape policies that create an organization that is relevant to today’s students and adds value to our members’ entire lives. With the current cultures around and perceptions of Greek life, it’s important now more than ever that our chapters are places where our collegiate members graduate stronger, smarter, and more socially aware than when they joined. To achieve this, information gathering is key. We need to understand our campuses, what’s prompting women to join, what’s discouraging them from participating in recruitment or leaving the sorority after initiation, and what would make them want to stay engaged even after graduation. If we want to remain relevant to today’s college students, we must understand their motivations, passions, and values.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

Some of the greatest challenges faced by women today include gender equality, mental health, and sexual assault/violence. I believe that Alpha Gamma Delta can support women by providing a supportive personal and professional network, fostering leadership skills and training, and creating a platform for advocacy and empowerment. The connections formed within sororities can provide invaluable lifelong networks for career opportunities, emotional support, and guidance, aiding women in navigating both personal and professional challenges. Sororities are uniquely positioned to offer mentorship, skill-building opportunities, and a supportive community that encourages women to take on leadership roles. This encouragement fosters confidence and translatable skills essential for success in future professional settings. While sororities are often platforms for raising awareness about women’s issues, we also need to empower our women to advocate for themselves and each other. Most chapters are very good at organizing events, but we sometimes struggle with initiating and actively engaging in discussions that promote gender equality, physical and emotional safety, and mental health awareness. I believe that Alpha Gamma Delta can create a member experience that promotes belonging and inclusion. By empowering our women to advocate for themselves and support one another, we can serve as a catalyst for addressing some of the challenges women face today.

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Jennifer Smentek Mores

Candidate for International Vice President

Johnston, Iowa
Gamma Alpha-University of Georgia

Wearer of the Crescent

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

My membership in Alpha Gamma Delta has provided me with opportunities to grow and develop as a person, leader, and woman. I would be honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving on International Council, allowing me to contribute to the strong and focused progress Alpha Gamma Delta has made during this current biennium. As the Fraternity remains committed to the implementation of the Policy Governance structure, it is important that our International Council members understand Policy Governance and their roles and obligations as board members. The leadership of our three distinct entities is invested in working together to ensure that Alpha Gamma Delta remains a vibrant organization dedicated to our members and uplifting the sorority experience on campuses and in our communities.

My multi-faceted volunteer service to the Fraternity, Foundation, Fraternity Housing Corporation, and National Panhellenic Conference, combined with my professional experience in the overall Fraternity/Sorority industry, provides me with an informed perspective that contributes well to International Council discussion, decision-making, and innovative thinking. I am excited about the impact our governance structure has made on the growth of the Fraternity, Alpha Gamma Delta’s dedication to the women’s only organization experience, and the development of our volunteer leaders.

As we are well poised for the future as an organization, we have to understand that Alpha Gamma Delta exists as a part of the overall Fraternity and Sorority community. The issues and challenges that affect the overall community affect us. It is important for International Council members to understand the bigger picture and have the knowledge to help navigate our vision for the future in our fraternal, National Panhellenic Conference, and campus environments. I will draw on my experience as a former NPC Area Advisor, former Chief Panhellenic Officer, and current industry professional as International Council makes decisions about our strategic priorities. I enjoy serving as an ambassador for Alpha Gamma Delta and will continue to do so within the Fraternity and Sorority community.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

My experience as a member of the 2022-24 International Council is a significant foundation to prepare me to continue the work of the 2024-26 International Council. I have participated in Policy Governance training and understand the work that needs to be done as we continue to implement the Policy Governance model. I am well informed of the Fraternity’s current strengths and weaknesses and the plan in place to address our challenges.

I have also been fortunate to serve on the Fraternity Housing Corporation Board of Directors. This board is more advanced in its understanding and implementation of Policy Governance, so I am able to offer feedback to the current International Council with suggestions on how to improve our work in this area. By serving on this board, I can be a better International Council member by understanding the housing aspect of Alpha Gamma Delta and how the two organizations affect each other. I am able to advocate for the best interests of all three enterprise entities, which positively affects the overall member experience.

I served the Denver Area Alumnae Panhellenic for five years in five different Executive Officer roles. These board positions required me to work with a variety of personalities, facilitate discussion, and lead people to accomplish meaningful goals. I was DAP President in 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic and was complimented by my fellow officers for leading with steadiness during unprecedented times.

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Informed Judgement:
Recently, International Council reviewed a request to consider changing the policy requiring House Association excess funds to be held by the Fraternity. As part of our discussion, I shared with International Council the necessity of knowing the current fraternity policies in this area, tax laws, legal issues, and the impact changing the policy would have on the overall financial health of the Fraternity. Because of my previous Alpha Gamma Delta staff experience, as well as my current experience advising Fraternity clients, I understand the tax and legal aspects that contributed to the establishment of the policy. I was able to raise some key points during International Council discussion that allowed us to move the issue forward with specific requests of the Chief Executive Officer based on IRS regulations and facts and not on opinions or feelings about the policy. Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

A challenge facing sorority life is the current decline in college/university enrollment at many institutions and a declining interest in sorority life in some geographical areas. While some types of universities, and specific geographical areas, are seeing excellent enrollment statistics and an increase in Open House Pools, others are experiencing a decline in enrollment accelerated by the pandemic. This decline reduces the number of potential new members we have on a given campus. Open House Pools in some parts of the US have not rebounded to pre-pandemic levels.

As an organization, we must focus on strategic growth and member retention. Alpha Gamma Delta can adopt policies that encourage both. I would use the analytical skills I have developed as an insurance and risk management professional to evaluate housing policies, mandatory requirement policies, allocation of recruitment resources, and extension opportunities to maximize investment in membership growth and financial stability. We can ensure we are making good choices that stimulate as much growth as possible by identifying the policy areas where we may have challenges, analyzing the effect of the challenges on the organization, determining the priority order of addressing the challenges, implementing a solution to our challenges, and monitor the results.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

When talking with my 18-year-old and 21-year-old daughters, they share with me that they still feel a struggle for gender equality and a need to see more women in leadership roles. Mental health support continues to be a need for women. Finally, many collegiate and alumnae women have to deal with the pressure of doing it all successfully.

Fortunately, Alpha Gamma Delta, as an organization created to support college women, is positioned by its very purpose to help women with the challenges they are facing today. The development of the woman as a person, citizen, leader, and Sister is at the very core of our Purpose.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s organizational structure should provide manageable leadership experiences that complement the other demands that compete for our collegiate members’ time, such as educational workload, jobs, and other activities. We also need to consider the work and life roles of our alumnae members as we ask them to take on leadership positions within the Fraternity. We can provide advisor training, recruitment and mentoring so that we have more advisors equipped to engage with and support our members. Leadership mentoring opportunities for collegiate seniors can be enhanced, creating more alumnae connections for these members and the value they find in staying engaged in the chapter at a later point in their academic careers.

Our organization can continue to focus on providing programs and training for women that support positive mental health for our members. As an enterprise, we need to collaborate to generate the financial resources we need to offer these types of programs to our chapters, officers, and members.

We can also increase the engagement we offer to alumnae that will support them in their professional roles and changing life obligations. Alpha Gamma Delta membership is for a lifetime, and our programming and opportunities for membership engagement should reflect the needs of our members throughout their life stages.

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Catherine Matthews

Candidate for International President

Indianapolis, Indiana
Theta Eta-University of Tennessee at Martin

Wearer of the Crescent

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

Fraternity life offers significant experiences for members throughout their lives. As a member of International Council, I have the opportunity to honor our past while also contributing to Alpha Gamma Delta’s future. It’s exciting to see what the future holds and to help guide the Fraternity through generational, economic, legal, and landscape changes. Given my educational, professional, and volunteer backgrounds, I am able to bring multiple perspectives to the enterprise. Through my professional work, I have significant experience in helping cross-functional and diverse teams work effectively together. My professional and volunteer experience in higher education, my training as a lawyer, and my service to Alpha Gam allow me to contribute in unique ways to International Council. For example, my training and experience working with executive leaders and complex teams will help me engage in Council deliberations with an open mind and a solid foundation as we discuss issues that impact the larger enterprise: continuing legal challenges to single-sex organizations, financial stability and membership growth, and relevance in the modern age. I have served on all three boards within the Alpha Gamma Delta enterprise: Foundation board, Fraternity Housing Corporation board, and International Council. Those experiences help me understand the organization from a variety of perspectives. I draw on these multiple viewpoints in an effort to broaden and deepen my individual and collective understanding of issues. I’m committed to using my skills and experiences to advance Alpha Gamma Delta through the execution of the strategic plan and through our relationships across the enterprise and with our external partners.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

The following experiences have prepared me for an International Council role because they have helped me work effectively with others, understand board duties, understand policy governance and member representation, lead others in member organizations, work on complex issues, and reach goals with others.

Consultant, USAID Project on Higher Education Reform, which is a multi-year project designed to improve the career services offerings at three universities in Vietnam. In this role, I researched issues and surveyed university personnel in Vietnam for background knowledge; worked with multiple stakeholders with interests that weren’t always aligned; identified areas of growth and opportunity; worked with university personnel to get buy-in; and then created implementation guidelines for each university to execute their strategic initiatives.

Board member Girls Inc. of Monroe County, which provided after-school care and a range of programming to girls aged five through 18. After serving as board president, I was appointed to chair the governance committee, which managed strategic planning, personnel policies and CEO review, risk management, and board development. Board Member, National Association of Law Student Affairs Professionals, which is the professional and advocacy organization for student affairs professionals who work at a law school in the U.S. or Canada. I served as a board member representing the Midwest region.

Member, Advisory Board, Office of Women, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, which assesses data relevant to the advancement of women on campus, discusses policy issues impacting women and advises the Office of Women on activities and programming.

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Respect for Others:
I use this competency on a regular basis both at work and on International Council. As part of my problem-solving approach, I look for ways to increase trust in order to facilitate dialogue. I ask questions to understand information more deeply and to see where people can contribute their best. I listen carefully to hear what’s not being said or what needs to be drawn out. As a trained mediator, I focus on giving people room to talk, hearing all sides, and helping people find common ground. But good leadership also requires action. As a person with strengths in executing goals, I also focus on what needs to be done: setting agendas, assigning tasks and timelines, following up on or completing assignments, and celebrating wins. For example, as the governance committee lead this biennium, I led the CEO performance review. My experience on International Council helped me understand the history of the process, and my professional experience helped me prepare for it. My committee sister also had a lot of relevant experience to share, so I asked for her expertise and took note of what was important to her; then, as partners, we worked independently and together to improve the survey, the data collection, and the process for the review. The process ran more smoothly this year, and we provided actionable and constructive feedback for the CEO. And we already have ideas for improving the upcoming 2024 review. Using this competency resulted in tangible improvements to an important task that belongs solely to International Council. Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

Challenges to the single-sex fraternity/sorority experience continue to be raised. Needs from within and without putting pressure on our organizations. Potential members, collegians, alumnae, universities, parents, and even courts have interests in what fraternities and sororities do; in fact, there are current legal challenges involving NPC groups. Although we are self-governing, we cannot ignore the world in which we operate. Experience and skills in policymaking and team building will be critical for future policy governance work in Alpha Gam. I bring experience within the Alpha Gam enterprise as a member of International Council and a former member of both the FHC Board and the Foundation Board. I also have experience with our current policy governance model as well as two other policy governance boards, including the FHC Board. In addition, I bring relevant professional skills to the board table. As a licensed attorney, I’m trained to be curious and ask questions, think independently, and work closely with individuals and teams toward and in support of their goals. As an organization development consultant, I’m skilled at making room for everyone to be heard and encouraging participation and contribution. At work, I help teams sort through complex information, find common ground, build effective working relationships, and achieve goals. Both of these professional skill sets allow me to help International Council identify areas for growth or improvement, encourage both dissent and consensus building, and work together toward our common goals. By using these skills, I can help International Council reduce distractions and concentrate its efforts on policy development and governance so that we can focus on the most important issues and make proactive decisions for the good of Alpha Gamma Delta.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

One of the current challenges facing women today is the epidemic of loneliness and isolation. Across generations, the reality of loneliness is evident all around. Loneliness is about more than being alone; it’s about the quality of connections with others. On college campuses and beyond, it can be difficult to find a place to belong and thrive. One of the greatest gifts that Alpha Gam offers future and current members is the chance to make deep and meaningful connections and sustain them over a lifetime. Separated by demographics and geography, we Alpha Gams are all united by a common Vision, which asks us to inspire and impact; it draws us to each other and holds us together in a shared commitment to others. The strategic plan commits the Fraternity to important work around belonging and engagement, both of which have enormous potential for a positive and lasting impact on future members as well as current collegians and alumnae. Our unifying Purpose provides a solid foundation on which to explore belonging and engagement and to incorporate them fully into the Fraternity experience; our partners in the FHC and Foundation are critical to these efforts as well. Across the enterprise, Alpha Gam can keep this sense of connected community front of mind in every aspect of Fraternity life-for example, in recruitment, housing, strategic plan execution, pro-connection policies, volunteer development, and programming for collegians and alumnae. Through these efforts, Alpha Gam can create a culture of connection; everything we do within the enterprise can make a difference, regardless of our circumstances, generations, or locations. As we rise to meet the demands of the modern age, the Fraternity offers something special and challenges each of us every day to impact the world in our own corner of it, for our current members and those we have yet to meet.

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Andrea Pendleton

Candidate for International President
Candidate for International Vice President  Atlanta, Georgia
Gamma Iota-Mercer University

Wearer of the Arc with Diamond

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

“Oh, how I love those Alpha Gams!” These were always my favorite words to sing during recruitment, and they have come to represent my deep love for our Fraternity and its members. I love Alpha Gamma Delta because my membership experience transformed my life and continues to help me become the best version of myself. I want to serve on International Council to ensure that more of our members, and future generations of Alpha Gams, experience the transformational power of our sisterhood.

Since my Initiation day, I have responded cheerfully to the chance to serve The Fraternity whenever possible. The various leadership roles I have held and the relationships I have cultivated with Alpha Gamma Delta sisters of all ages and backgrounds make me uniquely qualified to continue serving on International Council. I have previously served locally as an advisor for collegiate chapters, quickly grew a Junior Circle for young alumnae, helped establish and support new chapters as a Province Director and Regional Collegiate Coordinator on VST, and was the Fraternity’s first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Chair. For two years, I served as the International Council Strategic Plan Liaison to develop the plan that will help the Fraternity survive and thrive through the next biennium. These experiences allowed me to serve chapters within every structure size and acquire a deep understanding of the unique needs of our collegiate chapters and alumnae groups.

Professionally, I have more than 16 years of experience building relationships with various stakeholders, supervising staff and volunteers, managing budgets, and developing boards in the nonprofit sector and in higher education. My current service on Mercer University College of Pharmacy’s leadership team, including responsibilities as a professional and academic advisor for students, helps me stay focused on current trends in higher education and the issues impacting today’s college students.

I believe I can make a significant impact during this time in Alpha Gamma Delta’s history. Using the knowledge I have acquired professionally and through volunteer leadership roles, I want to help Alpha Gam feel and be relevant to our sisters at every stage of life. From a current new member to a sister who was initiated more than 50 years ago, Alpha Gamma Delta should truly be loving, leading, and lasting.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

Both professional and volunteer roles have prepared me to serve on Alpha Gamma Delta International Council. Professionally, I have spent my career in nonprofit management and working closely with boards of directors. This experience has given me the knowledge to know what works well and what does not, to manage a healthy and high-functioning board. I have worked closely on nonprofit board development with several exceptional leaders from Fortune 500 and 1000 companies who have become my mentors. The example they have set for serving and leading others has made me a better leader. As a development director, I currently serve on the leadership team of Mercer University College of Pharmacy. By working closely with university leaders, students, and alumni, I understand the challenges and opportunities colleges face today.

My volunteer board leadership roles include being the youngest member to serve on the YMCA North American Development (NAYDO) Council. The Council provides strategic vision and leadership for the organization, whose mission is to strengthen the philanthropic mission of the YMCA, with more than 7,000 members representing YMCAs in the United States, Mexico, and 25 countries outside of North America. At North Point Community Church, I have served in various leadership roles, including as a member of the Intersect Committee, awarding more than $80 million to more than 600 nonprofits since 2007.

These experiences, and prior experience on International Council, have prepared me with the board governance and leadership skills to serve our Fraternity effectively.

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Relationship Building:
Relationship building is an essential part of my work as a development director. Building authentic relationships with donors helps me to understand them better and then connect each donor with specific ways to make a contribution that is meaningful to them. Without building relationships, I would struggle to meet my fundraising goals. Having regular and genuine conversations with donors, remembering the important moments in their lives, and showing them gratitude helps shift what could be a transactional job to one filled with meaningful relationships. I often hear from donors about how much it meant to receive a onesie after the arrival of a new baby, a letter with an update about the student who received their scholarship, or simply a phone call to see how they are doing. In my office, I have a quote from Maya Angelou that hangs on my wall that says “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I use these words to guide my relationships and opportunities to lead and serve others. In any leadership capacity, it is essential to help those we serve feel seen and valued. Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

Declining student populations related to the college enrollment cliff will directly impact Alpha Gamma Delta and Greek life. Statistical analysis and forecasting show that the population of college-age students will begin to decline by 2025. Colleges and universities are developing strategies to survive declining enrollments and increased competition for students. Our Fraternity must also prepare for how we can remain strong with fewer members on college campuses.

Serving as a member of a College of Pharmacy leadership team has prepared me to understand and address the challenges related to declining enrollments. The number of pharmacy schools in the United States has doubled over the past 20 years, while the number of applicants has also decreased. Mercer University College of Pharmacy has received fewer and less competitive applicants in recent years, like most private pharmacy schools. We have adjusted our admissions and financial policies to adapt to the current pharmacy enrollment landscape.

I would use what I have learned from declining pharmacy enrollment to help create and shape policy for potentially declining collegiate membership. The enrollment cliff may be a catalyst for International Council to modify or develop policies related to investment, finance, linkage, and membership. Chapters on college campuses with rapidly shrinking student populations may face unique challenges. It may be more challenging for these chapters to meet current Good Standing requirements related to meeting chapter total due to very small recruitment open house pools and other constraints caused by campus dynamics outside the control of the chapter. International Council may want to analyze enrollment trends and develop or modify policies based on them. For instance, Good Standing requirements may need to be adapted for chapters where the National Panhellenic Conference sets campus total at a number that is more aspirational than attainable for our chapters. Fraternity policies should be designed to help the Fraternity and chapters remain as healthy as possible.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

We are in the midst of a mental health crisis. Research from the National Institute of Mental Health indicates that more than one in five women in the United States experienced mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety, over the past year. These statistics are similar for Canadian women.

A 2023 University of Michigan study found that 44% of college students screened positive for significant symptoms of depression and 37% reported anxiety disorders. I’m sure many of our alumnae would also share that they are more stressed, anxious, busy, and burnt out than ever.

While our Fraternity is not a mental health provider, Alpha Gamma Delta can prioritize our members’ mental health and well-being. We can expand our programming to help our members feel better equipped to recognize the signs of mental illness in themselves or other sisters and how to find or provide initial support. Training for collegiate officers and advisors, such as Mental Health First Aid, can help chapter leaders receive the skills needed to support sisters dealing with mental health problems or crises. The Fraternity can build upon current resources provided for holistic wellness and self-care. There are also opportunities to create partnerships with organizations that offer convenient access to counseling or mindfulness tools that proactively address mental health.

Women face unique challenges and stressors at every stage of life. Whether a sister is navigating her first semester of college, balancing class, and work and staying involved on campus, beginning a career and paying back student loans, advising a chapter, starting a family or preparing for retirement, Alpha Gam should be there. Our Fraternity can help members develop and prize the health of body and mind throughout a lifetime.

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Carol Richards Peske

Candidate for International Vice President

Tucson, Arizona
Alpha Beta-University of Michigan

Wearer of the Crescent with Diamonds

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

I feel like my work is not done; I’ve learned so much in all my years of volunteer service and have too much experience to let it go to waste. It is a pleasure for me to give my time to an organization that I care about so much. Little in my life has filled my bucket more than the time I have spent in my roles with the Fraternity and the Foundation. I feel like I can make a true difference as a member of International Council.

One thing I have learned from my experience is that the entire Greek system is at a crossroads, and now is a critical time to choose a direction. Alpha Gamma Delta must adapt to this new world we live in. New generations are not interested in how we have always done things. They have their own ideas and priorities for what a Greek organization should look like. Many of our alumnae organizations are also looking for a new direction, as the old model is not drawing in new members to our aging groups. On a personal level, I have a long family history in the Greek system, and it is important to me to keep this system that has cultivated and molded so many of my family members into strong individuals viable and thriving. I am interested in serving on International Council to ensure that Alpha Gamma Delta is looking into the future and creating a vision that will not only meet but exceed the ever-changing needs of women today.

I know that the work of International Council can be difficult at times, but I am ready for the challenge, and I feel that I could make a positive contribution to the group. I say without hesitation that Alpha Gamma Delta has made me the woman I am today. I want to serve on International Council as an example for and a mentor to those Alpha Gams still to come, just as so many Alpha Gams have done for me. That said, I am ready for the hard work, and I am confident that I have the time and flexibility required to be a productive International Council member.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

My years of service to the Fraternity on the Volunteer Service Team and on the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Board have left me with knowledge of the organization from many viewpoints. I have had roles working with both collegians and alumnae, and with the Fraternity and the Foundation volunteers and staff. I have vast knowledge of how the Fraternity and the Foundation work and function together and separately as a result of my role as Chair of the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Board. I also have knowledge of the Fraternity Housing Corporation (FHC). For most of my 9-year tenure on the Foundation Board, I have been a part of the Partnership Committee which most recently has consisted of regular calls with the President of International Council and the Chairs of the FHC and Foundation Boards, along with the CEOs of all three entities. Information about the entities is shared and discussed on these calls with the intent to keep one another aware of any successes or challenges and to share insights and resources.

Leading the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Board through the adoption and implementation of a new governance model has also prepared me for a role on International Council. The Foundation began its transition to Policy Governance over two years ago, right on the heels of International Council deciding to make the switch. The Foundation hired the same Governance Coach as International Council to help us through the transition. International Council and the Foundation Board were writing our Policies and Ends at about the same time. We have gone through similar growing pains as we adjust to this new way of governing and have shared our observations, wins and challenges along the way. We have compared and contrasted each other’s documents as we each finalized our own.

One of the main reasons I am running for International Council is that I feel that I have learned so much from working through the implementation of Policy Governance with the Foundation Board that I want to experience working with an organization on the other side of implementation and actually governing using this model. Since the Foundation Board has term limits and I have served as long as I can serve, I am hopeful to continue to share what I have learned and be an asset to International Council because of my experience in this area while still learning as we move forward.

I also recently led the Foundation Board through a discussion about Vision. During that discussion we looked at the Vision and Mission Statements of the Fraternity, the Foundation and the FHC, with the intent of potentially adopting a new Vision Statement for the Foundation. I find these discussions where we are looking at all three entities, the Fraternity, the Foundation, and the FHC, very stimulating. We are separate, yet we are all Alpha Gamma Delta. Should we all have the same Vision? What information and resources can we share to help each other realize that Vision? I think this is an important and exciting way to think as a member of International Council.

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Relationship Building:
One of the things I enjoy most about being a leader is the responsibility to be an ambassador that comes along with that role. When I did StrengthsFinder, my top strength, WOO, stands for “winning others over.” I have never met a stranger, and I am not afraid to strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere. This has been an important skill to have when serving the Foundation. I am happy to have had the opportunity to meet and speak with individuals and groups of collegians and alumnae, both informally and formally, to share information about the Foundation and to thank them for being donors and/or encourage them to become donors. I have spoken at International Reunion Days, Alpha Gamma Delta Conventions, special occasions such as chapter anniversaries, in Thank View videos, and at various meetings of a variety of constituents. I have made numerous phone calls to donors at every level. I am also proud to be an advocate for the organization in my own personal circle. I believe my relationship-building skills, along with the relationships I have cultivated over the years, will prove to be an asset if I become a member of International Council. When you believe in something, it is not hard to speak with others about it. I welcome the opportunity to represent International Council in forums of Alpha Gams or externally in places like university campuses or to other Panhellenic groups. I also welcome the opportunity to build relationships with my fellow International Council members. I believe that relationship building helps any group work together better. Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

I think the main challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta and Greek life in general is staying relevant. Is the Greek system still a viable model today? I say yes. If I did not believe this, I would not be applying to be on International Council. However, I might add an asterisk to that yes. The Greek system vis a vis Alpha Gamma Delta is a viable model as long as it continues to evolve to meet the needs of collegians and alumnae today and doesn’t shoot itself in the foot by generating negative press.

How does Alpha Gamma Delta continue to evolve? I believe that is the job of International Council. As the governing board of Alpha Gamma Delta, International Council must be constantly looking ahead and be nimble enough to react. Policy Governance affords us the opportunity to do that. In order to set and change policy, International Council must be educated on what is happening in the world around us. We must seek information about subjects that could potentially affect the health of our organization, such as higher education, generational trends, the economy, politics, mental health issues, and current events. If we monitor these areas closely, then we will not be surprised when there are shifts, and we can react by changing or adding policies or revisiting our Ends statements.

The skills I would utilize to help create policy would include my desire to keep up with what is happening in the world around us, my ability to not shy away from the hard discussions, my desire to not do things just because we have always done them that way, and my knowledge of the Policy Governance model. A Policy Governance Board is not supposed to cross over into the world of operations. That is the job of the CEO. Our job is to set policy and to look to the future with the best interest of our members in mind.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

I believe that two of the greatest challenges facing women today are the high cost of education and mental health issues. I feel that Alpha Gamma Delta is well-placed and should provide support to our members in these areas.

College is expensive. Many young women are getting financial aid and coming out of school with thousands of dollars in student loan debt, especially lower-income and minority students. While Alpha Gamma Delta must be cognizant of the financial burdens on our young women today, at the same time, I realize we must be cognizant of our own bottom line and viability. Therefore, it is our responsibility to set a fair and competitive price for fees and services and make sure that our members and potential members are getting a good return on their investment from their membership in Alpha Gam-and that they know they are. Our members need to be thinking that not only do I get room and board, but I also get leadership training and opportunities, mental health support, networking, mentoring, social activities, sisterhood, scholarship opportunities, study spaces, fitness and laundry facilities, and lifelong connections. For those members who are unhoused, we need to be even more transparent about the benefits they receive from their membership. If they are made aware of the things that come along with being a member, then the financial burden of belonging to a sorority may seem a better investment, and they may choose to give up something else instead to make ends meet. Also, all of our members should be made aware that the Alpha Gam Foundation supports our young women through scholarships and other opportunities.

As for mental health, Alpha Gam has an exemplary history of providing programs to our collegiate women in the area of mental health in recent years. I feel that it is crucial that we provide support in this area as part of the sorority experience. One recent survey says 50% of college students identified mental health, including anxiety and depression, as their top stressors. It is so important that we provide our members, staff, and volunteers with the tools they need to deal with and ward off mental health crises. We also have the unique opportunity to teach our members to be supportive of one another. With access to these skills, our members will be better equipped to Inspire the Woman and Impact the World.

The sorority experience should continue to support our alumnae, too. It is important that alumnae are aware of the Foundation’s financial resources for sisters in need, such as SIS and Disaster Relief Grants and Scholarships and Continuing Education Grants. Mental health education opportunities for alumnae might include webinars with mental health experts, social media links to mental health resources, articles in the Quarterly, and sisters helping sisters by being there for each other.

We, as a sorority, have a unique opportunity to help our members in these areas, and, in my opinion, they should remain a priority in setting policy.

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Dani Picciotti

Candidate for International Vice President

San Diego, California
Alpha Beta-University of Michigan

Wearer of the Arc with Diamonds

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

The Alpha Gamma Delta Purpose, “To welcome the opportunity of contributing to the world’s work in the community where I am placed because of the joy of service thereby bestowed and the talent of leadership multiplied,” unknowingly became my foundation when I heard it at my first pledge meeting. This phrase continues to be one of my guiding principles throughout my post-collegiate career; both personally and professionally. I have had amazing opportunities to grow as a person, a professional, and as a woman with Alpha Gamma Delta’s Purpose as my foundation.

Over the last 10 years, I have engaged in leadership positions in Alpha Gamma Delta and non-Alpha Gamma Delta organizations. Throughout these experiences, I intentionally sought to intertwine tools, techniques, and best practices from each organization as a means to amplify each other. Examples such as the use of a team handbook from Alpha Gamma Delta chapter operations into the American Society for Quality as a means of providing a level of consistency in leader training and interpretation of the governing procedures and quality-related tools and templates into officer training and Executive Council meetings to improve efficiency and effectiveness of their interactions.

As a quality professional, I seek out improvements, lessons learned, and teachable moments. Through my participation on the board of directors for non-profit organizations, I have contributed to strategic planning, the development of executable objectives, and the development of governance processes. These experiences have prepared me to support Alpha Gamma Delta to build on her legacy and successes.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

Alpha Gamma Delta International Council

International Vice President (July 2022 – Present)

ASQExcellence (ASQE) Board of Directors, [https://asq.org/about-asq/about-asqe]

Past Chair (Jan 2023 – Present)

Chair (Jan 2020 – Dec 2022)

ASQExcellence (ASQE) was founded in January 2020 as a trade association whose mission is to set the standard for quality-driven offerings and insights worldwide, inspiring the organizations it serves to achieve excellence. ASQE provides expertise, insights, thought leadership, networks and resources to a global membership of organizations and their affiliated individuals representing a wide range of industries and cultures.

As the inaugural Chair of the ASQE Board of Directors. I led the following activities:

ASQ Board of Directors, [https://asq.org/about-asq]

Director representing Technical Communities (Jan 2014-Dec 2019)

ASQ Board of Directors consists of 20 volunteer member leaders and is managed by a Chief Executive Officer and a senior staff leadership team. As a member of the Board of Directors, I was responsible for the following activities:

ASQ Technical Communities Council Chair (Jan 2018 – Dec 2019)

The Technical Communities Council (TCC) is comprised of representatives from 26 technical communities supporting quality-related topics and industries (i.e. Quality Management, Human Development & Leadership, Automotive, Healthcare, Medical Devices)

The Technical Communities Council (TCC) Chair is a member of the ASQ Board of Directors representing the Technical Communities and leads the management of the Technical Communities ensuring compliance to ASQ governance policies and procedures. As the TCC Chair, I was responsible for the following activities:

ASQ Technical Communities Council Vice-Chair (Jan 2016 – Dec 2017) As the TCC Vice-Chair, I was responsible for the following activities:

ASQ Certification Board Chair (Jan 2008 – Dec 2010) The ASQ Certification Council provides Leadership and Stewardship, with Integrity and Customer Focus, in the process of certifying Quality Professionals. As the Certification Board Chair, I was responsible for the following activities:

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand

In 2019, ASQ’s legal counsel brought to the Board of Directors specific concerns about the Society’s structure and activities as they related to the IRS 501c3 designation. The concern focused on activities that were technically outside the 501c3 scope, specifically organizational membership and certification activities and associated revenue. These out-of-scope activities could jeopardize the non-profit status of the Society and could have a significant negative financial impact if they were to continue. Counsel reached out to me as Chair of the Technical Communities Council and current ASQ Board member to review the situation, potential consequences, and possible options for a path forward.

I recognized the sense of urgency in the situation and requested several calls to review the available information in the IRS tax code, the percentage of activities and associated revenue related to the Organizational Member and Certification programs, as well as benchmarking data for similar technical society organizations. The objective was to determine if there was a trend in activities and revenue that could jeopardize the 501c3 status or if the situation was more of an anomaly. The historical data and forecasted activity indicated that there was a clear trend these activities were expanding beyond the IRS limits, and if action was not taken, the future of ASQ was uncertain.

We explored several options using the available internal data, governmental regulations and requirements, and market forecasts to find the most effective path forward. We identified the following options:

The information, risks, and benefits were scrutinized to ensure any proposal put forth to the Board of Directors presented the risks of each option, including financial impacts to the Society as a whole. The options were presented to the ASQ Board of Directors along with the identified risks and forecasted impacts. The recommendation put forth for Board approval was option 3. The identified risks would be included in the execution of the activity in the form of a communication plan and presentation to members and specific contractual agreements between ASQ and the new trade organization ASQExcellence (ASQE). 7.

Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

The sense of belonging, whether as a collegiate or an alumna, is the reason why we joined Alpha Gamma Delta, it’s why so many join the Greek life community. The elements of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are essential to Alpha Gamma Delta and Greek life as a whole. We have the responsibility as leaders in our communities to ensure we support our members and provide an environment that is welcoming and reflects the values and purpose our founders defined when Alpha Gamma Delta was formed.

Listening to our members and learning Panhellenic resources has enabled International Council to evolve our process and policies to remain relevant in today’s Greek life community. Much care has been taken to make changes that benefit the organization as a whole. The skills and talents to progress these changes include objectivity and respect for both people and tradition. I feel I can and have contributed to these conversations and activities based on my current experience within International Council as well as on the other Boards on which I have served. The gathering of information from internal and external sources is paramount to making sound decisions; as a Quality Systems professional, this is what I’ve been trained to do and where my passion for supporting Alpha Gamma Delta is engrained.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

Mental health needs and challenges for women continue to increase as the demands, expectations, and pressures from all around are changing (socially, financially, and politically). We are still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on mental health across the globe, especially on women. Collegiate members are expressing continued levels of high anxiety and depression, and alumnae members are expressing feelings of trepidation. There is no easy instruction manual for navigating this “new normal,” not to mention processing the increasing turmoil at home and abroad.

The needs of sorority members, our members, today are changing. The sorority experience of today is expanding to provide members, advisors, and volunteers with thoughtfully curated resources and programs to learn, explore, and communicate in a safe space. Amidst the need for change, there is still the need for consistency that the collegiate sorority experience provides in leadership development opportunities and the focus on academic excellence. In the alumnae arena, the sorority experience can and should be an environment to connect and reconnect to keep the bonds of sisterhood strong and the ability to support and feel supported.

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Klazina van den Berg

Candidate for International Vice President

Toronto, Ontario
Delta Zeta-University of British Columbia

Wearer of the Arc

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

Alpha Gamma Delta has had a deep positive impact on not only myself but also many outstanding women that I hold dear to my heart. I believe in its mission and the experience it offers its membership and hope it will be around for centuries to come, inspiring and impacting the women of future generations. Through my extensive experience directly supporting chapters’ recruitment efforts, I have gained insight into not only recruitment-specific complexities, challenges, and opportunities but also a range of other chapter concerns (i.e. retention, finance, Panhellenic) across North America. Meanwhile, my career in sustainability and financial markets has allowed me to hone my critical thinking, financial understanding, analytical, and communication skills rigourously. Overall, I offer a range of expertise and viewpoints which, if elected, would be an asset to International Council in stewarding Alpha Gam through the challenges we currently face as an organization as we look to the future. It would be an honour and a privilege to be able to lend my voice and talents to Alpha Gamma Delta for a second biennium.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

Alpha Gamma Delta International Council: familiarity with policy governance, current themes and priorities, and how Council engages with staff.

Alpha Gamma Delta VST: experience working with the diverse perspectives and priorities of chapter advisors, recruitment advisors, collegians (generally presidents, VP Recruitments, and Membership Directors, but also collegians-at-large at chapter visits) across North America, as well as LCs, other volunteers, and staff.

Professional Experience: in my previous roles, I frequently engaged with key decision-makers, including company CEOs, CFOs, and board members of private and public companies, and senior individuals (managing directors and group heads) internally. At CPP, I liaised frequently with group heads, deal team leads, and juniors, as well as senior members of our portfolio companies, and learned quickly how important it is to tailor the depth, breadth, and language of messaging across each of those, and how the considerations and perspectives needed to be addressed could dramatically shape the final deliverable.

Women in Capital Markets: current mentor with university women, to stay connected with the realities they’re facing, the issues they’re concerned about, and how they think about and approach these. One mentee actually asked about sororities when she saw my CV, went through Primary Recruitment as a junior, and has been loving her experience as a KKG.

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Informed Judgement:
Organizations and large projects are like organisms with a multitude of interconnected strings. I am acutely aware that there is a need to think holistically about problems and consider the varying perspectives and priorities involved, as well as any potential unintended consequences from decisions made. Equally important is a focus on materiality and the application of judgment in determining the appropriate amount of time and effort to be spent on any given problem. While supporting investment teams in the consideration of climate and sustainability (including environmental, social, and governance) factors, I regularly applied informed judgment in determining when it was worth putting the expectation on a team to spend time being diligent to a potential issue, in order to be prepared for pitching at investment committees, and when items were likely to be immaterial (a decision for which I would also ultimately be accountable). Making the correct calls, which frequently involved leveraging financial literacy skills, also assisted in relationship- and authority-building, as it became clear that I maintained high-performance standards as well as respect for the time of everyone involved. Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

I believe that one of the greatest challenges facing both Alpha Gamma Delta and Greek life today is clearly defining and communicating our role and the unique value we offer our members. In order to stay relevant as women assess (and reassess) the value proposition Alpha Gamma Delta adds and whether membership is a worthwhile investment of their time and money, we need to ensure we have a clear sense of who we are as an organization so we can effectively communicate our value-add to both potential and current members. Importantly, we need to be intentional and proactive in our messaging and programming to ensure the organization stays true to its original mandate as a women’s fraternity while modernizing certain elements to be in step with today’s times.

To that end, I believe I bring strong communication and relational skills, which will support me in linkage with our key constituents, as well as a heavily numbers-oriented and strategic background which will be helpful in holistically assessing whether our policies are effective or whether they need to be refined. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure our policies provide the necessary direction to create a healthy feedback loop (e.g., through monitoring reports) to be able to assess wins and losses more quickly and redouble our efforts or pivot as necessary.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

Our sorority, with the wisdom and beauty of its Purpose, rituals, and membership, is one of the most powerful vehicles with which we can invest in both current and future generations of women and support them in fulfilling their potential to live thoughtful, intentional, heart-forward, and service-oriented lives, while simultaneously inspiring them to seek out and realize all of their individual and collective dreams, whatever those might be.

In my view, one of the greatest challenges facing both our collegiate and alumnae women is finding and maintaining the community and sense of belonging necessary to develop and maintain the direction, conviction confidently, and drive to persevere along a chosen path successfully and ultimately Impact the World in the manner they each aspire to.

I believe that Alpha Gamma Delta’s role in addressing this is to provide structure, encouragement, leadership, and guidance such that the community can blossom and flourish at each of our campuses, as well as at all the hubs in which our alumnae gather, both in person and online.

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Jolie Graves Webb

Candidate for International Vice President

Durham, California
Delta Iota-California State University-Chico

Wearer of the Crescent

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

I have always been a determined individual. Coming to college, I was looking for a place to belong, and I found that in Alpha Gamma Delta. Upon hearing our Purpose, one line has continued to rise above for me. “To possess high ideals and to attain somewhat unto them”. This personal drive has helped to push me, but it has also helped me to elevate the organizations I have been chosen to serve. From the time I was chosen to advise a collegiate chapter to the way I have served on VST; working to elevate Alpha Gamma Delta has always been at the forefront. I believe in our mission and the impact it can have on women today. Over the years, Alpha Gamma Delta has invested so much in me as an alumna member, and it feels important to give back to her as much as I can. I have grown from having an impact on one chapter, to many chapters, to now hope to have an impact at the highest level as a council member. The more I give to Alpha Gamma Delta, the more passionate I become in seeing the success of our organization.

Over the past few years, the landscape within NPC has changed significantly, becoming much more competitive. The National Panhellenic Conference has moved from a mindset of parity to a mindset of growth. Through my many positions in Recruitment Support and as an NPC Area advisor, I’ve been provided a window into the future. It is my belief that it will be critical to have alumna members on Council who understand these changes and can help navigate them. Ultimately, my interest in serving on International Council is driven by my desire to use the knowledge and experience I have to make Alpha Gamma Delta a stronger organization

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

I currently serve as the Chair of Durham School District’s Bond Oversight Committee Board. This board is a necessary requirement by California law to oversee the spending of taxpayer funds of a sold bond. Our bond is for $19,000,000 and was purchased to upgrade two district sites along with a completely new build at a third site. Meeting with the school administration along with our guiding attorney has allowed us to learn about our duties, responsibilities and authority limitations. The board has introduced me to working with community members of many generations and demographics. We are tasked with reviewing all expenditures and contracts, touring the site, and creating an annual report that is shared with the school board and community. Our key objective has been to make sure we fulfill our responsibilities without overstepping or asking questions on topics outside of our scope of work, all while accurately and clearly communicating to the public how their money is being used to better the school district.

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Informed Judgement:
Recruitment demands consistent analysis and action to maintain success. Since 2020, Alpha Gam and NPC as a whole have encountered significant changes in recruitment. The ability of the recruitment team to act quickly and pivot has kept our organization healthy. Using the data supporting declining campus enrollment, we began to develop plans to shift toward other recruitment styles. Anticipating these changes and preparing for them was the best way we could position our chapter leaders to help our chapters. Navigating all of these changes while ensuring our chapters had as many resources as possible became my first priority. As chapters started to see the recruitment team as a partner and resource, I worked with staff and the team to capitalize on this newfound partnership. By keeping the team focused on proactively communicating the changes coming and how chapters could navigate those changes, we saw success with chapters at a time when many organizations struggled. Since then, staff and I have used this momentum and a new attitude toward our team to continue our support efforts. I have worked hard to continue that leadership style as NPC creates new policies that impact our chapters. Understanding these new policies, the legislation and how it will impact our chapters has been a driving force as I educate and prepare the recruitment team for what is coming. It has been my mission to ensure both VST members and chapters have as much information, knowledge and resources as we possibly can.

Positive Panhellenic is a great example of a new NPC policy, which was introduced during COVID-19 to reduce barriers of contact between initiated members and potential new members to enlarge the open house pool of PNMs in primary recruitment. The nuance of the policy required extensive understanding by the team so we could confidently and accurately share information with members. To prepare, I led several team meetings to discuss this policy to build confidence in translating the information to chapters. Next, we hosted a webinar with chapter officers and advisors to share this information as quickly as possible. Getting this information to chapters early allowed us to be seen as well-informed leaders on campuses.

My position as an NPC Area Advisor has allowed me to hear information and see how things are communicated to campus-based professionals. This has aided in my ability to educate the team and formulate plans. From the onset of being placed in the chair role, my personal experience influenced how I coached and prepared the team, all the way down to the support plan for chapters and the way we interact. My experience as a Chapter Advisor and my own collegiate experience developed the way I viewed recruitment and the recruitment experience. Additionally, my background in sales support influenced my feelings and ideas about proactive chapter support. It has been my primary goal to build relationships with chapters while strengthening and educating them.

Additionally, much of the information that makes the recruitment team knowledgeable necessitates collaboration with a few other VST teams where we overlap in supporting chapters. Reaching out to other chairs and developing this collaboration strategy strengthens not only what we can do to support our chapters but also enhances the volunteer experience. Over my term, we have held several collaborative calls each year, building relationships and uniting our efforts.

Finally, as open house pools continue to decline on many campuses across North America; staff and I have focused the team on opportunities for growth available to us. We have focused on growth to total through Continuous Open Bidding, thereby allowing the growth of our organization in a time where extension opportunities are limited. Our proactive focus on COB has made our chapters more comfortable with that recruiting style and given them confidence as trends continue to show that Gen Z and future generations are more interested in joining Greek life through a more relaxed method. Over my term, I have worked hard to use my experience, current information, and trends to prepare and educate our volunteers and chapters so that we can continue to thrive and be successful.

Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

The greatest challenge facing Alpha Gam and Greek life is the predicted enrollment cliff. The current generational mindset toward Greek life is a component of this challenge. As opportunities for extension decline, we must look for ways to maintain and increase our organizational desirability. In order to create a policy to combat this population decline, I would strategically analyze our chapter viability measures and maximize our growth within the total set on campus. NPC has shared data that recruitment registration has declined and will continue to decline in specific geographic regions, indicating a disconnect between the benefits of Greek life and this current generation. I would research to determine desirable traits that future generations seek as they decide how and where to spend their time. My work with the recruitment team gives me a deeper understanding of these challenges and the potential financial impact on our Fraternity. I will use my financial skills from the Bond Oversight Committee to create a policy that helps us be desirable to PNMs while being fiscally efficient and effective. From my perspective, reviewing policy around good standing and expectations will help our chapters understand the need to work to stabilize their chapter and position them to withstand the potential challenges that might come. Research of geographic trends with regard to this population decline as we prepare or adjust will be helpful as we review what will best help move forward our strategic plan.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

To me, the largest problem that women face today that the sorority experience can greatly impact is the lack of women in positions of power. From the board room to the courthouse, medical research teams, and the government, there is a lack of women leading in these integral areas. The lack of women in these critical places impacts the direction of decisions and the impacts that these decisions have on women and others. The daily lives of women are greatly affected without their perspective adequately represented. As a women’s organization, we have the unique opportunity to greatly make a difference in this area by exposing rising young women to specific skill sets that would elevate them into these positions. Women in these power positions have shared that having leadership resources would have helped them grow and emerge as leaders. Alpha Gamma Delta has the opportunity to put these resources into the hands of future female impact makers. Continuing to focus on providing leadership training such as decision-making skills, conflict resolution, critical thinking, and many other areas that current powerful women have shared will help prepare and give confidence to women entering the workforce or political space after college. The sorority experience provides an opportunity for aspiring women as a training ground to test strategies and hone these skills. Alpha Gamma Delta has already taken a great step in this direction; our new Empower leadership program is a perfect start to enhance these skills in interested women. Utilizing our alumnae members as a network and resource could provide the ideal support structure needed to build women up and provide them with the support needed to take that leap of faith into a power position. Adding a network of experienced and resourceful women to the current sorority experience would enhance and strengthen the marketability of Greek Life.

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Linda Mabry Wilkinson

Candidate for International Vice President

Mechanicsville, Virginia
Theta Zeta-Randolph-Macon College

Wearer of the Arc with Diamond

 

Alpha Gamma Delta Experience Since Graduation:

Why are you interested in serving on International Council? Expand

I am interested in serving on International Council because I am motivated by the needs of undergraduates and alumnae in these complex times. Serving as a Chapter Advisor and as a current member of the Society of Alumni Board of Directors at Randolph-Macon College has given me valuable insight into the lives of students, their changing needs and how higher education is evolving (or not) to meet those needs. So many of our students are struggling with often debilitating mental health issues without the necessary resources available to them for optimal health. They are also limited by financial constraints and job opportunities. Serving as a member of IC would allow me to bring my passion for resolving systemic issues for youth/students and alumnae and my knowledge of board governance forward in a meaningful way. I believe in our Purpose and the challenge set forth in our ritual to serve others. It is a lifelong commitment we make to the Fraternity, ourselves and our larger communities. I am eager to be part of strategic solutions that will support our members now and in the future by changing minds and systems that support our sisters.

What prior board or leadership experience has prepared you for an International Council role? Expand

I have over 25 years of nonprofit leadership and governance experience both as CEO and as board member/chair. I have served multiple local, statewide, national and international agencies as CEO/Executive Director and/or consultant. As the CEO of the Virginia Association of Free & Charitable Clinics, I led a 70-member organization for almost eight years through strategic planning and revenue & membership growth while utilizing the Carver Model of Policy Governance. I also brought this same model to the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics as a board member for seven years. As a student of board governance and nonprofit leadership, I also present and consult on this important topic to various organizations and in higher education.

I believe that with my experience as a staff leader in the nonprofit sector and as a member of several state and national boards, I have the experience and passion to be an effective board member for Alpha Gamma Delta on International Council. Not only do I have extensive experience in nonprofit management, but I also have formal education on the subject, having taken numerous courses from the University of Richmond’s Institute on Philanthropy and Virginia Commonwealth University’s Nonprofit Studies program. Recently I became eligible to complete a certification for association leaders based on my nonprofit experience. My exam will occur in May 2024.

Based on my experience in the nonprofit sector, former Virginia Governor Ralph Northam appointed me to the Family and Children’s Trust Fund Board of Trustees, where I am the current Chair. My role as Chair requires me to not only apply my knowledge of board governance but also the mechanics of state government, fund development and government relations. Board members are all appointed by governors, thereby creating a politically diverse group of leaders. This can be difficult at times due to competing priorities and approaches, but it also allows me to exercise my lobbying and political leadership training to maximize relationships for our mission. Chairing this particular board requires significant patience and determination to execute our strategic priorities.

Which core competency do you demonstrate the most as a leader, and provide an example of how you have demonstrated it while serving in a leadership capacity? Expand Integrity and Accountability:
In my role as CEO of a nonprofit organization, one of my primary responsibilities was resource development. In January 2019, I negotiated a $1.5M donation to the organization I was leading at the time. The donor, a corporate partner, asked me (my organization) to engage in sole-source contracting with them in exchange for the donation. I knew this was not ethical nor permissible per government regulations. I denied the request and reported it immediately to my board chair and then the full board. I was willing to lose a $1.5M donation but not my integrity or the reputation of my organization. We ultimately received the donation without unnecessary strings attached. Describe a challenge facing Alpha Gamma Delta/Greek life and what skills would you utilize as a member of International Council to help create policy that will guide the Fraternity in addressing the challenge? Expand

My service as a Chapter Advisor and member of Randolph-Macon College’s Society of Alumni Board of Directors has afforded me the opportunity to observe first-hand how college students are struggling with significant behavioral health issues, especially members of our LGBTQ+ community and the impending “enrollment cliff” both of which will have a direct impact on Greek Life. Both are complex issues that require strategic thinking, access to reliable data, partnering with other organizations and (re- )allocation of resources (e.g. human & financial) to address properly.

Mental health needs of college students have intensified, especially over the past three years, with COVID-19 causing feelings of isolation. In recent surveys, more than 60% of college students indicated they experienced at least one behavioral health issue (e.g. depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance use disorder); 15% indicated they have thought about suicide, and 33% have felt so bad they couldn’t function or perform activities of daily living. Four out of ten college students have considered withdrawing from school due to behavioral health issues such as emotional stress. For those of us who work in healthcare, we know the statistics represent real people with real problems. Behavioral health affects all students regardless of color, but a disproportionate share of women and people of color are affected along with non-binary students. Students of color are less likely than white students to seek help. There is a plethora of studies with data that demonstrate the dire situation occurring on college campuses with the mental health of students. The strategies or solutions are just as complicated as the diagnoses themselves but are worthy of research and innovative strategies to address this crisis.

The United States is experiencing a crisis in healthcare providers, especially behavioral health. The lack of non-white counselors or psychiatrists is often attributed to why students of color do not seek treatment. They want and need to work with professionals from their community who understand their cultural and religious views. Both are critical in successfully treating students with behavioral health needs like depression. The mental health crisis on college campuses is an issue that should be a priority for Greek organizations. We are in a great position to advocate for and work directly with our members because of the trusting relationships we have based on our Ritual and mutual commitment to service to others.

As a member of IC, I would use my analytical skills in strategy development, advocacy and relationship stewardship to be an advocate for investigating programs/initiatives like Mental Health First Aid or UWill telehealth that could be replicated within each Alpha Gamma Delta chapter or college campus. I would seek other national, international and statewide organizations for partnerships that share our commitment to improving access to quality, culturally appropriate behavioral health services both on-campus and in our communities for alumnae. I would utilize my network of healthcare providers to offer guidance to IC in formulating policy that reflects our Purpose. Policy that offers students hope that they are not alone; hope that they are not flawed or broken; and hope that, working with our students, college leaders and Alpha Gamma Delta, we can be more proactive and responsive to the evolving needs of our members and campuses without the stigma of addressing mental health issues.

Finally, the enrollment cliff is a critical strategic issue for colleges and universities. With the projected decline in college enrollment beginning in 2025, Greek organizations should be prepared for this decline in enrollment of four-year schools with strategies that address: the value of Greek membership, benefits, affordability, non-traditional students, flexible and culturally appropriate programming that is responsive and adaptable, and non-traditional outreach strategies. I would utilize my strategic planning and relationship-building skills to work with IC and HQ staff to address this worrisome trend in higher education that will directly impact membership in Greek life.

Alpha Gamma Delta’s Vision: Inspire the Woman. Impact the World. Reflecting on the Vision Statement, what do you believe are the greatest challenges facing women today and what role should the sorority experience play in supporting women? Expand

One of the most concerning challenges facing women today is the same issue that has plagued women for decades-pay disparity. It is widely known that women still make only about 84% of what men make for the same job. I would like to see Greek organizations like Alpha Gamma Delta advocate for pay equity and offer professional development programming for undergraduates and post-graduates to better advocate for themselves when it comes time to negotiate salaries, benefits and terms of employment. Too often, women do not apply for jobs unless they are certain they have 100% of the attributes for the position, while men will apply if they have 50%. Women are less likely to ask for salary increases or promotions. Companies are still offering women less for doing more or equal to male colleagues. It is time for women to know their worth and how to advocate for themselves in the professional market. Financial support from the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation allowed me to pursue a Political Leaders program that has had a great impact on my marketability. While I understand the Foundation is a separate organization, I would like to see how IC and the Foundation could work together to develop workforce development programs and funding for sisters who wish to increase their marketability and compensation performance.

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Voting Instructions and Resources

Please refer to the 2024-26 International Council Elections Information email for detailed voting instructions. Voting closes March 27, 2024 at 11:59 pm ET. For an overview of the roles and responsibilities of International Council, visit the Elections Overview page linked below.

Elections Overview
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