Kappa Kappa Gamma - University of Missouri

THETA NEWS | 6 K appa Kappa Gamma has introduced Marty Stephenson Mos '63 to numerous firsts, for example: her first real introduction to Mizzou and, the opportunity to first meet her future husband, Gerard. Com- ing to MU from Elmhurst, Ill., Marty was initially exposed to campus and KKG during high school when she had the opportunity to visit a hometown friend who lived in the chapter house. A few years later, she found herself paired with a Phi Gamma Delta brother at Savatar Frolics, and the next 50- plus years are history. "Our motto, Love and Loyalty, are strong and lasting values. I love writing that on a note to a Kappa friend. It expands the friendship to a more en- compassing circle. There is a bond that is automatic when you meet another Kappa," she said. Alongside bonding with sisters, living in the Kappa house required cooperation, selflessness, organization, leadership, and a willing- ness to compromise. These skills are carried over after college in the home, workplace, and community. Although Marty has not visited the chapter recently, she knows the active chapter is vital and was motivated to give back by contributing to The Key to Excellence campaign. "My contribution not only helps provide the essential expansion and upgrading needed to maintain the excellence of the beautiful house, but it demon- strates to the undergraduates that Kappa is a lifetime of friends, experiences, and loyalty. We promise to be the best for Kappa we can be," she said. "All gifts, regard- less of size, are welcome and important. It is an oppor- tunity to band together and show loyalty to the chapter. The most impressive number is not the amount one gives but the number of sisters that join the effort." Marty earned her bachelor's degree at MU in speech and language pathology and her master's in communication disorders at San Francisco State. She practiced as a pediatric speech and language pathologist in Vancouver, B.C., San Francisco, and Kansas City. In KC, she has been particularly active with the nonprofit sector through CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), which provides court advocacy for abused and neglected children who are wards of the court. Additionally, she worked with MOCSA (Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault), which provides services to counter the effects of sexual assault and abuse. Marty and Gerard have two grown children, Leanne and Stephen, who each have two children of their own, ages 12-16. A Legacy of Dedication to Kappa Kappa Gamma Marian Klingbeil Williams '55— Ready to Serve Extraordinary Dedication to Theta Chapter Recognized F rankye Sue Long Mehrle '65 served on the House Board for more than 30 years. She helped with all aspects of House Board duties, but her primary expertise was overseeing the landscaping. As part of the Expansion Team, she was responsible for the new landscaping and decorative planters, all part of the recent renovation and expansion at 512 Rollins. The House Board hon- ored Frankye at their October 10 quarterly meeting with gifts and a permanent plaque on a wall of the cherished back courtyard, now forever named for her. Frankye will continue her Kappa involvement by remaining active in Colum- bia's Kappa Kappa Gamma Alumnae Association. L inda Orman, "Mom," has been the House Director at Kappa for 25 years, longer than any other in the Mizzou Greek community. The House Board, women of the chapter, and her longtime staff value her knowledge, experi- ence, and devotion to Theta Chapter. She was honored for her 25 years at the Chapter/Alumnae Association Founders Day celebration on October 7. As part of the Founders Day celebration, 15 Theta Chapter Kappas, who were pledged the year Linda began her tenure, returned to receive their 25-year pins. It was a fitting tribute to all. And no, Linda is not retiring! "The most impressive number is not the amount one gives but the number of sisters that join the effort." Alumna Honored for Service to the House Board M arian Klingbeil Williams '55 always intended to pursue a career in education. In fact, she taught physical education for several years. However, many would say her life's work has been serving her beloved Kappa Kappa Gamma. Marian's outstanding record of leadership (including Fraternity President and Chairman of the National Panhellenic Conference!) spans nearly 60 years. After graduation in 1955, Marian moved to Albuquerque, New Mexi- co, where her KKG sisters reached out and involved her in community boards and committees. Her natural ability to motivate others and can- do attitude typically placed her in leadership positions. Eventually, she would lend her talents to Kappa. "Regionally, the Kappas asked me to help and that was the beginning," she said. "Kappa made me ready to serve and support others. The alumnae taught me the importance and value of volunteering." Marian's desire to serve the sorority began as an undergraduate when she took on the role of chapter president. Since then, she has maintained a devotion to Kappa Kappa Gamma and Theta Chapter, as evidenced by her unmatched legacy of service. When Theta Chapter embarked on The Key to Excellence Campaign Since 1875, they were fortunate to have such a passionate Kappa in their corner. "I am giving back for all of the opportunities that were given to me. I knew the alumnae would come forth because of that same focus and wanting the chapter to con- tinue to be highly successful," she said. "Any gift, large or small, will continue the fine efforts of Theta Chapter. It is returning the wonderful gifts of membership that were given to us." This August, Marian was one of hundreds who attended the House Warming event and was thrilled to see alumnae displaying their sup- port and approval of the renovations and new addition. "The chapter has traditionally been outstanding through the years, with a solid record of community and campus service projects, philanthropic events, aca- demic standing, and service to the Fraternity as a whole." For 59 years, Marian has been married to her husband, Chuck, and the couple has three grown children and six grandchildren. Her daughter, daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters are Kappa sisters. "I am eter- nally grateful to Kappa Kappa Gamma. My experience in Kappa has made me who I am today." E-mail: wms2821@aol.com House Director Thanked for 25 Years Kappa Values, Love and Loyalty, Inspire Marty Stephenson Mos '63 to Support Theta Chapter

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