Sigma Sigma Sigma - Pittsburg State University

Sigma Sigma Sigma PA G E 2 FORMING BONDS While some memories of sorority life have faded over the years, Paula fondly remembers the pomp and ritual of initiation ceremonies—especially when she led them as Chapter president. She went on to serve as president of the alumnae chapter in Johnson County, which unluckily held a meeting during the horrific flood of 1977. "After a while, we decided it maybe wasn't a good idea to continue the meeting, so we adjourned to find flooded streets and no quick and safe way home. We relived that night many times after the fact and agreed to consider weather when a meeting was scheduled." In her post-graduate life, Paula is most proud of her family, including 50 years of marriage with Miles and raising two wonderful daughters, Mandi and Ali. The family also owns a car business and runs Schnaer Family Wines. Business success has helped them lead a great life together, but for Paula, it all goes back to family in the end. "I'm so proud of my daughters and exceedingly proud of our 15-year-old grandson, Maddox." Paula was ecstatic when her older daughter, Mandi Schnaer Dow '94, joined Chi Chapter. "I know she felt the same warmth and friendship in her group as I had in mine." Paula cherished the opportunities to visit, both to relive her experiences and see how things had changed across generations. LIFELONG SUPPORT Years ago, Paula and Miles were approached by a friend of theirs, former Pitt State and Chiefs football player Kendall Gammon, about getting involved with Pitt State as alumni donors. "Once we did, we were hooked." Most of the projects they've supported involve athletics, but they are currently working on a climate control project for the Weede Gymnasium at PSU, which benefits the community at large due to the building's many functions. Student debt is also a deeply important issue to Paula. "I began by thinking about how my mom went to work just to put me through college and how I could do that for someone else." This led Paula and her daughter to establish the Paula Beebe Schnaer/Mandi Schnaer Dow Scholarship, an endowed fund that provides tuition for a Tri Sigma sister, sophomore year and older, through a two-year plan. "The college provided me with a great education, and the sorority provided the social aspect that made me a well- rounded person. I want that to continue for others." Paula encourages alumnae looking to reconnect with Chi Chapter to reach out and learn how they can support the sisterhood. "I know there were alumnae in the background supporting my era, and I hope we all see the need to carry on that torch." If you'd like to connect with Paula, she can be reached at pschnaer@me.com. Cherishing the Sierhd (Continued from page 1) T his last year has tested us due to separations and restrictions set for COVID-19; however, the sisters of Sigma Sigma Sigma's Chi Chapter have proven that our sisterly bonds, and our love of serving children and the community, will always come out on top. In the spring, Chi Chapter was awarded Program of the Year for our March of Dimes virtual craft sale, which raised more than $1,000. The Chapter received Excellence in Greek Relations and Excellence in Recruitment and Retention. Chi Chapter also earned the highest GPA of all fraternity and sorority organizations on campus for the spring semester with a 3.56. Our individual sisters were also recognized for their efforts: Madeline Murdock '20 received the Emerging Leader Award, Jami Gooch '17 received the Outstanding Greek Woman Award, and Cathy Stareck Linaweaver '77 received the Volunteer of the Year Award. Along with our proven excellence in academics, our members participate and hold leadership positions in more than 20 different student organizations on campus. The Chapter also held its first virtual 5K and Venmo bingo, which benefited the Robbie Page Memorial, raising more than $2,000 to support play therapy rooms. We kicked off the new school year with formal recruitment. Chi Chapter welcomed home 27 new members, which landed us three members over quota. Following recruitment, the Chapter surpassed campus total, as our Chapter is now 85 members strong and the largest sorority on campus. In the coming months, we are looking forward to the Mr. Robbie Page men's pageant, Homecoming, social events, and celebrating Chapter milestones, such as Chi Chapter's 100th anniversary. We hope to host more in-person events with our sisters, to create and strengthen Greek relations, and to grow our connections with alumnae and new sisters! Sincerely, Morgan Singletary '17 President Chi Chapter Sisters Are Going Above and Beyond Cathy Stareck Linaweaver '77 with her Volunteer of the Year Award. Jami Gooch '17 with her Outstanding Greek Woman Award. Madeline Murdock '20 with her Emerging Leader Award. PROV I NG EXCELLE NCE

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