Alpha Chi Omega - University of Kansas

P olitics has been a passion for Kristey Slyter Williams '91 for many years, and she credits her successful career to the high-quality education she gained at the University of Kansas. However, it wasn't just the university that inspired Kristey to excel academically, but also Alpha Chi Omega. "At the time, Alpha Chi Omega was No. 2 on the hill for academics. I wanted a chapter that placed its academic success as a high priority," Kristey says. "Phi Chapter not only challenged me to secure top- notch grades, but allowed me the opportunity to connect with young women who shared similar values and hopes. The friendships, though time has distanced, are still special memories." As an undergraduate, Alpha Chi Omega provided Kristey with valuable life lessons that played a pivotal role in her pursuit of a professional career in politics. Kristey says, "Growing networks and friendships are always important when preparing for life. Any group, sorority or otherwise, allows the practice of team building, coordinating responsibilities, and caring for the needs of others. Learning to really appreciate and respect others, while expanding your viewpoint of the world, is an important part of growing up. I've learned it's easy to judge when you can't appreciate someone else's perspective. Appreciation for others only comes with hearts, eyes, and minds wide open. The world is a better place when we seek to understand others and what they believe and why." More than 25 years later, Kristey maintains ties with KU and her Alpha Chi Omega sisters, primarily through social media. Although Kristey leads a busy lifestyle, she realizes the importance of remembering her Phi Chapter roots and staying connected to the sorority for life. "It's a good idea to maintain relationships with those who 'knew you when.' In the expanse of your life, those who knew you 'when you were young' will always hold a special place for you," she says. Kristey serves in the Kansas Legislature and is a state representative for the 77th District. She is now serving her third year, second term. Within this role, Kristey is chairman of the Local Government Committee and is chairman of the Republican House Campaign Committee. Her previous work experience includes serving as mayor of Augusta for 7.5 years and as a public school science teacher for five years. When asked what advice she would give to those who are early in their careers, Kristey says, "Resist judging others, learn as much as you can, exercise your mind and body, and embrace the moment. When dealing with others, look beyond the person—look for the good, the potential, and ways to show kindness." When she is not hard at work, Kristey loves to travel, talk politics, read, run, be outdoors, and attend her children's events, including sports, debate, church, and music. Kristey and her husband, Joe, have four children, Sydney (18), Sadie (16), Holt (13), and Halle (11), and live in Augusta, Kansas. "If you're in Topeka during the legislative session, please stop by the Capitol and introduce yourselves. My office is 165 W. if you're interested in politics—Kansas offers some of the finest, and certainly controversial and interesting!" You can send Kristey an e-mail at kristey.williams@house.ks.gov. Kristey Slyter Williams '91 Builds Successful Career in Politics, Remembers ACW Roots "Appreciation for others only comes with hearts, eyes, and minds wide open. The world is a better place when we seek to understand others and what they believe and why." 1885 Club ($500 to $999) Judith Sabbert '71 Stephanie Supple Jones '94 Scarlet & Olive Club ($100 to $499) Margaret Wille Walker '55 Jane Kliewer Munsell '61 Jeanne Hathaway '64 Linda Huff Matocha '72 Nancy Eckert Selleck '76 Debra Schwerdtfeger Kelsh '84 Jennifer Tiller Burgoyne-Dechant '87 Faith, Hope & Love Club (Up to $99) Carol Krehbiel Kreischer '49 Carole Fisher Burner '54 Joann Swanson Franklin-Knox '54 Barbara Clarke Nash '64 Kristin Baker Larpenter '87 Megan Meyers '00 Courtney Rich Saye '00 Thank You, Alumnae, for Your Generous Support L ast fall, 16 alumnae showed their support for the chapter by contributing $2,444 to the annual fund. The accomplishments and success enjoyed by Phi Chapter could not happen without the loyal support from our chapter's alumnae. Gift levels reflect giving by appeal. If an error has been made in recording the amount of your gift, we sincerely apologize. If corrections to your giving record are needed, please send them to kschweer@penningtonco.com. Thank you, again, for your loyal support. Give Now! CHECK OUT ONLINE GIVING! Want an easier way to give? Visit http://axophi.kintera.org/donate to make your gift for our annual campaign online today! N O T E S O F T H E L Y R E | P A G E 2

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