Alumnae are missing important updates because they have not kept their contact information current at National Headquarters. Tri Sigma has partnered with Publishing Concepts ("PCI") to assist in updating alumnae membership data. This type of overhaul with our membership data has not been completed since 2005 and is necessary to ensure alumnae are up-to-date with organizational announcements.

Through updated email, phone and addresses, we can now update our alumnae on important National program changes and celebrations. PCI is also helping to collect data specific to you such as career and family data which will help us reach our long term goal. We will build an intricate interactive database to assist alumnae in reconnecting with each other - find missing sisters, network for jobs with fellow Sigmas, identify volunteer opportunities, join local alumnae chapters, recommend potential members to collegiate chapters, connect sisters/daughters/granddaughters with our National legacy program. The possibilities are endless.

If you have gotten a postcard or phone call from PCI, please be sure to respond promptly. PCI is collecting data which will be published in a directory. The call will last approximately 20 minutes. They will be selling the directory; however, purchase is not required in order to have your information updated at National Headquarters.

For answers to frequently asked questions, please visit a FAQ page on our National website by clicking here.

This project is being managed by our Director of Alumnae and Volunteer Services, Aimee Jensen Boland. Feel free to direct questions to her: ajensen@trisigma.org or 213-290-2327.

"Why join an alumnae chapter?"
Contributor: Kim Kokko Davids, Omicron, Nashville Alumnae Chapter
Volunteer Recruitment Coordinator, Region 4

"Why join an alumnae chapter?" When I hear this question my response is, "There are so many reasons! Why wouldn't you?"

I was a charter member of the Ypsilanti (MI) Area Alumnae Chapter. I was just out of school, newly married and it was fun to maintain contacts with my chapter sisters. Over the years, this chapter expanded to the Western Wayne-Washtenaw Alumnae Chapter. We are an award winning chapter boasting most of the members have their Alumnae Recognition Award and the 2009 Emily Gates Alumnae Achievement Award winner as a member as well. But that didn't happen overnight. We started with members from only one chapter; we now have members from five other chapters with five alumnae initiate members! My involvement with the alumnae chapter gave me a new appreciation for the true accomplishments Sigmas can meet when they come together and work as a team.

In 2002-2003 my husband accepted a fellowship in DC. I did not know anyone so before we left Michigan I contacted the Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter to let them know I would like to join. Shortly after arriving in DC, and alone in our apartment one day, I had a medical problem that needed some quick attention. I had no idea of where to go in DC for any medical care. I emailed the President of Northern Virginia for advice and within minutes I started getting information and support. I actually received 18 emails back with helpful suggestions! One sister offered to drive me to a clinic or hospital and another even made an appointment for me. Wow. Sisterhood!

Last year we made a big move to Tennessee. Again, I didn't have any acquaintances at our new location, but I knew that there must be an alumnae chapter in TN. I have joined the Nashville Alumnae Chapter who has accepted me with open arms.

Collegiate chapter experiences are intense, but brief. The greatest lessons learned, friendship gained and leadership experienced is from my time in alumnae chapters. Being an alumna of Sigma Sigma Sigma is rewarding, exciting, and realistically, the longest time spent as a member of Tri Sigma. My hope is that all members could enjoy alumnae life as much as I do. Take a second to find an alumnae chapter closest to you (http://www.sigmasigmasigma.org/MeetUs.mvc/Chapters/Action/Alumnae) and give it a try. You never know what new and fun experiences are waiting for you!

All of us have fond memories of our college days, but in today's world, a person moves an average of 12 times in her lifetime. In those moves we not only break vases and forget where we put the remote control, but we lose important connections, connections to Tri Sigma and our sisters.

We lose email addresses from the women who were initiated with us. We lose phone numbers from our Sigma mentors. We forget to update our addresses and The Triangle never reaches us. Photos are ruined, memories fade. We forget how important our sorority connection was to the women we are today.

Help us ignite our Share the Sisterhood Campaign by reaching out to those members who might have gotten "lost" in their latest move. Start by sharing this Alumnae Update with her and encouraging her to email National Headquarters, sigma@trisigma.org, with her most current email, phone and mailing address.

How wonderful it is to re-engage a sister. Thank you for your efforts to re-connect with these sisters!

All Golden Violets are invited to attend a Legacy Celebration at Walton House in Woodstock Virginia October 5 - 7, 2012.

This will be the first time Golden Violets have an opportunity to convene and celebrate with each other their steadfast membership as Tri Sigmas. The setting of the Walton House is most appropriate for this exciting event.

The Golden Violets are invited to stay at Walton House and the weekend will include experiencing the sites and local restaurants in Woodstock, VA, enjoying the historical Mabel Lee Walton House, and telling great stories of Tri Sigma from all different generational perspectives.

Golden Violets are encouraged to bring any memorable items that they may want to share or even donate to Walton House and our archives. Several stimulating sessions are planned regarding Tri Sigma History, Tri Sigma Today updates, and current programming. What a unique and exciting opportunity!

Golden Violet Nominations

Did you know Golden Violets must be nominated in order to receive this prestigious recognition? The Golden Violets honor is given only to those special Sigmas who have proven their vow of lifetime commitment through their friendship and steadfast love of our Sorority for 50 years, have been faithful and loyal, have worked for the advancement and perpetuation of our ideals, and have given service and financial support. She must have paid her Annual National Dues for 20 years or more, or have paid Lifetime Dues. Do you know an eligible Golden Violet?

Nominations for the Golden Violet award can be found in the Alumnae Resource Center on Sigma Connect by clicking on the "Awards" link or by contacting the Alumnae Membership Coordinator, Jessica Lafollette, jjett@trisigma.org, 540-459-4212.

We'd like to recognize Barbara Stichler Bonapfel as a Jewel of Tri Sigma. Barbara is a graduate of Florida State University, Rho Chapter. Barbara served as Tri Sigma's National Housing Coordinator for 10 years and just recently retired. She is recognized for being efficient and effective in her volunteer position and, even as a collegian, was the "pearl" of her chapter. During times of stress, Barbara's composed demeanor keeps those around her calm while she works to create a team dynamic that can accomplish anything. Her nominator writes, "She is a dedicated alumna; a true Sigma spirit."

Barbara, thank you for your undying contribution to Tri Sigma. This organization would not be the same without your love and dedication.

Is there a Sigma you'd like to recognize? Take a few minutes to nominate her! http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/jewelsoftrisigma.

CAB & Volunteer Summit

Advisors and Volunteers – save the date! The CAB & Volunteer Summit will be held in conjunction again with the Dunham Women of Character Institute in Chicago, Illinois at the Chicago Marriott O'Hare May 11-13, 2012. The Summit begins with dinner on Friday evening at 6 pm and ends Saturday evening at 10:00 pm with a T-shirt Auction to benefit the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation.

The registration fee is $75 and includes everything except transportation. This year's event will include keynotes by Brad Karsh, Job Bound and Dr. Mari Ann Callais. There will be specific tracks for new advisors, seasoned advisors and national officers/resource personnel. Look for more information soon.

Attendance is not required; however, we will look to all national volunteers to make every effort to be in attendance. This information will not only help you become a better volunteer, but a better leader as well.

Labyrinth Leadership Experience

The Labyrinth Leadership Experience will be June 6-10, 2012. It is the capstone experience of our national leadership program. It is an opportunity to explore with other members what it means to be a Tri Sigma leader in today's world. Open to 20 members, applications are currently being accepted. If accepted to attend this program, the entire cost is covered.

To learn more or to apply, go to Sigma Connect. Applications due February 15, 2012.

Colonization

This semester, we will be installing two of our colonies – Lindenwood University and Drexel University!

Our colony at Lindenwood University will be installed on Saturday, February 25, 2012. Our colony at Drexel University will be installed on Saturday, April 14, 2012.

If you would like additional information regarding attending these Installation events, please contact Lauren McHugh, colonies.trisigma@gmail.com.

Virtual Recruitment Toolkit

Move over Recruitment Planner, here comes the Recruitment Toolkit! Program Team Volunteers, Regional Support Team members, and staff have been working over the past 4 months to create resources for the recruitment toolkit. You can't have a recruitment process without resources, and we're thrilled to show off a recruitment toolkit with more than 190 ideas that will allow collegiate members to access materials whenever, and where-ever they want them. This interactive online toolkit gives them the ability to grab a to-do list, rate, comment and use resources, and share with chapter advisory board members.

The Recruitment Toolkit will empower Membership Recruitment Directors to lead. A values-focused recruitment starts and ends with a tone of preparation. We're super excited to share this incredible resource with our collegians and alumnae. Tri Sigma is all about being innovative and this toolkit is a resource no-one else has. Learn more about the ins and outs of this amazing resource by visiting Tri Sigma's blog: http://trisigmablog.org/

Volunteers are the life blood to our organization. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit the Get Involved section on Sigma Sigma Sigma's National website or click here. All volunteers must be current on their alumnae dues and have a Volunteer Service Application on file.

Available volunteer opportunities are as follows:


• CHAPTER ADVISORY BOARD – various positions open. The following chapters do not have any advisors.

o Chi, Pittsburg State University (KS) – Chapter, Financial or Honor Council advisors

o Mu, Truman State University (MO)– Chapter and Honor Council advisors

o Omicron, Eastern Michigan University – Financial Advisor

o Alpha Kappa, Fairmont State University (WV) – Chapter and Recruitment advisors

o Alpha Pi, Clarion University (PA) – Financial and Essential Sigma advisors

o Beta Delta, Shepard University (WV)– Chapter, Honor Council and Essential Sigma advisors

o Beta Epsilon, Western Illinois University – Financial Advisor

o Beta Theta, Pittsburgh State University (PA) – Chapter Advisor

o Beta Xi, Southeast Missouri State (MO)

o Beta Pi, University of Wisconsin-Stout – Honor Council and Accreditation and Awards advisors

o Epsilon Upsilon, Marist College (NY) – Chapter Advisor

o Eta Alpha, Stephens College (MO)– Financial and Honor Council advisors

o Eta Chi, University of Missouri (Mizzou)

o Eta Psi, St. John's University (NY)– Recruitment Advisor

o Gamma Beta, East Carolina University (NC)– Financial Advisor

South Carolina State Days, February 18, 2012 – open to area alumnae
San Francisco Sisters Getaway – August 10-13, 2012 - open to all alumnae
Charleston, SC Sisters Getaway, November 9-12, 2012 - open to all alumnae
National Convention, June 21-24, 2013 – open to all alumnae

2012 South Carolina State Day
Come learn some of Ms. Emily Lee's Life Lessons at the 2012 South Carolina State Days held Saturday, February 18 from 11-3 at the River Center at Saluda Shoals Park in Columbia, SC. The registration fee is $20 and can be accessed here: http://scstateday.wufoo.com/forms/2012-tri-sigma-sc-state-day/. Dress is casual and comfortable. The agenda for the day includes chapter updates, lunch, service projects, and reunion time. Registration covers entrance to the park and lunch. Information regarding event t-shirts will be sent to registered participants. All questions should be directed to Emmy Smith at emsmith57@gmail.com.

San Francisco, CA Sisters Getaway
Sisters are encouraged to take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity to tour San Francisco August 10-13, 2012. This choose-your-own-adventure trip boasts such opportunities as a tour of local wineries, a trip to Alcatraz, riding on a street trolly, and many other famous San Francisco attractions. More details to follow. Contact Angie Eaton, angie.trisigma@gmail.com, with questions.

Charleston, SC Sisters Getaway
November 9-12, 2012 sisters will be meeting in Charleston, SC for a fun weekend of seeing the sites and reuniting. Don't miss out! A special room rate has been reserved until September 25th at the Hampton Inn Downtown. More information can be found by calling them directly 1-843-723-4000 and using the group code SSG. All questions can be directed to Emmy Smith, emsmith57@gmail.com.

Convention 2013 in Orlando, Florida
National Convention is scheduled for June 21-24, 2013 at the beautiful Buena Vista Palace Hotel and Spa in Orlando, Florida. This location is near the Downtown Disney area, just minutes away from the Walt Disney World Resorts. If you have never attended a Convention, 2013 will be a great opportunity to start planning now! Whether you are 18 or 88 years old, you are sure to have a wonderful time.

Visit with Phoenix and Tucson alumnae chapters
Cindy Harms, Foundation GOLD Development Officer had the pleasure of visiting two alumnae chapters in December. She met the Tucson and Phoenix alumnae chapters at their holiday meetings, and had the opportunity to speak about the Foundation and its GOLD program.

Members of the Tucson Alumnae chapter from left to right: Sallee Britton, Gamma Epsilon, Henrietta Hallaq, Beta Xi, Shari Stewart, Beta Kappa, Cindy Harms, Alpha Epsilon, Katie Smith, Iota, Debbie Johnson, Nu




Anne Ruiz, Iota Alpha in center accepting the "Outstanding Service Award"
from My Sister's Place for the Phoenix Chapter, Oct. 2011

The Phoenix Alumnae Chapter donations to the Foundation totaled over $1,000 from raffle baskets, a memorial gift, special allocation from the treasurer and a special "pound party" auction (contact Maryellen Baxter, sigma602@aol.com) for details of this special fundraiser. The chapter earmarked all donations to the Louisa Replogle Scholarship, which the chapter is endowing in honor of their beloved member. This scholarship is at nearly $20,000 as of today, which is very close to endowment level of $25,000.

The Phoenix chapter also has a local philanthropic project, "My Sister's Place." This is a 25-bed domestic violence shelter program that provides services at no charge to women and children fleeing family violence. The chapter supports them with in-kind gifts, monetary donations, and volunteer help. This year the chapter received from "My Sister's Place" the Annual Outstanding Service Award.

Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation scholarships

You can apply for an undergraduate or graduate scholarship provided by the Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation. Scholarships range from $500.00 - $5,000.00, depending on the amount of funds available. DON'T FORGET – scholarship applications are due by March 31. Scholarship instructions and applications are available at www.trisigma.org in Sigma Connect under the "Foundation" container in the far left column.

Foundation travel dates
Cindy Harms will visit sisters in Miami, FL on February 7-10, Nashville; TN on February 21-23; Detroit and Central MI on March 6-8; and NYC and NJ on March 20-23. Cindy would like to visit you during her trips. Contact her at charms@trisigma.org to let her know you would like to see her.

"We are sisters, always. Not for a day or school term only." I believe, as we become alumnae, our responsibility to Sigma grows even greater than the day we accepted our bid.

Giving back to our Sorority can happen in so many ways – alumnae dues, Foundation donations, volunteering, alumnae chapter membership, staying informed through social media, wearing your badge to work. But what is more important than the ways we stay connected, is the fact that we do stay connected.

With the alumnae directory project well underway, I find myself constantly reflecting on ways to expose even the smallest alumnae engagement opportunities to alumnae; ways to best use the information we are collecting; ways to reconnect our alumnae to the mission and purpose of our great Sorority.

Our alumnae form a network of over 80,000 members and 25% of those are "missing" and only 5% have updated their information for the alumnae directory. My goal during my time as Director of Alumnae and Volunteer Services is to reignite fire for the love and admiration for Tri Sigma; to make even the smallest ways to give back feel like we are making the biggest difference. What is your goal for your involvement with Tri Sigma?

Ever forward,


Aimee Jensen Boland, Eta Iota
Office: 213.290.2327
Email: ajensen@trisigma.org