Kappa Delta - University of Alabama

2 The Katydid I n 2015, Lisa Patton Southard '77 attended the ribbon-cutting of the new Kappa Delta Chapter House with Wilda Weaver Hudson '77, her college roommate and close childhood friend. Lisa, an author, had been brainstorming topics for her fourth novel, and she unexpectedly found inspiration that weekend. "It was only a matter of time before someone penned a novel about southern sorority life, and after reliving my college days that weekend I knew I was the author to write it," Lisa said. "I sure didn't want to leave it to an outsider, and most importantly I wanted to show the benefits and joy that come with belonging to a sorority." That novel, Rush, served as Lisa's love letter to her KΔ experience, as well as a call for recognition and support for those who work within the Greek system. THE MOTIVATION TO WRITE The inspiration to become an author came from Lisa's time in her mid-30s as a southern belle innkeeper in Vermont. In the beginning, Lisa simply wanted to document the "funny fish-out- of-water stories" for her future grandchildren. "Eventually, I realized I could fictionalize my misadventures and turn them into a real novel." Lisa considers humor to be an important part of her love of writing, and she has her time staying up late laughing with all of her KΔ sisters to thank. "While on book tour, I often visit my KΔ sisters living around the South. They've been so very supportive, lending me their guestrooms, buying my books, and hosting parties in my honor. I cannot thank them enough." All of Lisa's books contain characters named after her close KΔ friends. THE THEMES OF RUSH Lisa's inspiration for Rush also came in part from a conversation with the housekeeper that weekend at the ribbon-cutting. "Conflict is what turns the page, and I knew I had to come up with a storyline that would keep my readers interested." That conversation motivated Lisa to highlight characters from across the social ladder in Rush, bring awareness to the house staff in the Greek system, and advocate for benefits. "I'll never forget the kind members of our staff who cooked all our meals and made our time at the house special. They influenced Rush as much as anyone." In Rush, Lisa explores themes such as racism and classism, social justice, and mother/ daughter and female relationships. "I took a risk in writing Rush, and I'm happy I did." When she's not reading or writing, Lisa enjoys yoga, traveling, and spending time with her family and girlfriends. Email: lisa@lisapatton.com "The friendships I made at Kappa Delta have lasted a lifetime, and my sisters have supported me as an author every step of the way." Friendship and Support in Kappa Delta Author Lisa Patton '77 Shares the Inspiration for Rush DID YOU KNOW? Number of Honors and Clubs Involved In: 24 Number of Council Members Attending Convention: 9 Number of Members Recognized on Dean's and President's List: 257 Number of 2019 Greek Excellence Awards Received: 2 Number of Shamrock Run Attendees: 1,600

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