Chi Omega - University of Wisconsin

THE NU'S 2 Χ Ω T he lyrics from the Chi Omega Symphony, "to work earnestly, to speak kindly, to act sincerely and to choose thoughtfully that course which occasion and conscience demand," have been inspirational and guiding words for Cynthia Compton '81. While that may be the most important teaching of her college education, there are two great lessons she learned from her sorority experience that have helped her succeed: first, how to listen to others opinions and goals; and second, how to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities. ese lessons have undoubtedly played a role in her success as a business owner, and the experiences afforded through her Chi Omega membership motivated her to support the future of Nu Chapter. "Both of these are not only great life skills, but make the transition to work, graduate school, and family (or all three at once) seem much more achievable," she said. When choosing the sisterhood she wanted to be a part of, she realized it was a lifetime decision. It needed to be just the right place, not only for college but forever. Chi O was the sorority for her, and the home she wants support and honor through contributing to the capital campaign. "e house at 115 Langdon is not only a physical home for our active members, but a touchpoint for all alumnae. It's important for us to maintain this historic structure, as well as honor it as a beautiful legacy for the many pledge classes to come," she stated. "We all want to bring our children and grandchildren there someday, and celebrate generations of sisterhood in that special place." Nu's house at 115 Langdon is where Cynthia felt engaged, empowered, and supported as a young woman, which prepared her to join her post-college community as an active member. "ere are few places that teach us as well, support us as fully, and love us as unconditionally as our Chi O sisterhood," she remarked. e skills she gained through Chi Omega have served her well as the owner of 4 Kids Books and Toys, a children's book and toy store in Carmel, Ind., which has received numerous national awards. Aer 10 years in the corporate world, she wanted to find a way to spend time with her growing family. Aer having their fourth child, she decided to follow her lifelong passion for both literacy and children and open the book store. "Hence the name, 4 Kids." "e challenges of business ownership are always changing, but clarity of purpose and a good sense of humor, both of which were fostered during Chi O days, are the two biggest strengths I can bring to any obstacle we face," she shared. Cynthia believes that what she demonstrates to both the kids she and her husband have raised and those she influences through her store, is something bigger: that as women, we can fill multiple roles in our lives as professionals, parents, daughters, sisters, activists, and volunteers. "We can't do it all at once, but we have the ability and the obligation to pivot toward those aspects of our lives that need our attention and care, and we are good at it," she said. "Who we are and what we contribute is so much bigger than a single job title in a single year—and our lives grow richer as we find ways to adapt and take on new roles." Cynthia and her husband, Steve Schultz, live in Carmel, Indiana, where they raised their four children and now cater to the needs of a herd of adopted and foster English Bulldogs for Indiana Bulldog Rescue. She has served on the American Specialty Toy Association Board of Directors, held regional and national bookselling association leadership roles, and is a frequent speaker for industry education and trade show events. She contributes regularly to Publishers Weekly and other industry publications, and is never, ever done with her laundry. Connect with Cynthia at kidsbooks4@gmail.com and visit her store online at https://4kidsbooks.indielite.org. Keeping Chi Omega Ever at Heart Nu Membership Prepared Cynthia Compton '81 to Succeed, Motivated Support of Campaign Cynthia Compton '81 (center), Barbara Ward McCrory '80, and Anne Bouffard Bern '80 in 1983. Cynthia Compton '81 (center), Barbara Ward McCrory '80, and Anne Bouffard Bern '80 restaged the photo a couple of years ago.

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