Chi Omega - Kansas State University

Χ Ω 2 The Cardinal and Straw T o be a president of a House Corporation Board (HCB), one must deeply value the organization and have a true enthusiasm for seeing it move forward. In the case of Chi Omega's past and current HCB Presidents Kim Elston Jacobson '80 and Marilyn McCrillis Nichols '75, respectively, these two women have demonstrated those prime qualifications several times over. Kim Elston Jacobson '80 Q: As someone who has served as HCB President, what's a piece of advice you'd give Marilyn as she starts her journey? A: I'm not sure that I need to give Marilyn any advice! We've been on the board together for 16 years, and during that time, we've been through so much together: a capital campaign, a house renovation, attending a National HCB Summit, dealing with COVID-19—not to mention the fact that Marilyn was on the Chi Omega National HCB for a year. She's got this! Q: How did you become the president? A: I was on the Advisory Board for several years and got to know Ann Larkin West '77, who was the only member of the HCB at the time. The kitchen was in desperate need of renovation, so I jumped over to help Ann. Later, I became president, and she continued as secretary/treasurer. About four or five years later and seeing a need for a capital campaign for a renovation of the house, Marilyn, her sister, Joan McCrillis Lafferty '69, and Kelly Moore Williams '72 joined the board. I did not feel qualified to lead a capital campaign, so we reorganized the board and its positions; Joan became president, Kelly became VP of finance, Ann became the financial administrator, Marilyn became secretary, and I became VP of facilities. In 2015, we switched things up again, and I became president once more. This past spring, I could see that Marilyn was back to her spunky self after recovering from breast cancer, so I suggested that she take the reigns as president. I'm so thankful that she accepted, and we can already see her enthusiastic stamp on the HCB! Q: What was your favorite part of being president? A: My favorite part has been getting to know all the board members—many of us have been serving together for 16 years. I've also enjoyed getting to know many of the Advisory Board and Executive Board members of the Chapter each year. A Presidential Transition within the House Corporation Board Q&A with Kim Elston Jacobson '80 and Marilyn McCrillis Nichols '75 Q: What were some of your favorite memories as an undergraduate? A: I would have to say that one of my favorite events to participate in every year was Derby Days; the teamwork and competitiveness were so fun, and I think it's still a favorite event for the active members. Study hours in Farrell Library, Owl Hoots, our sophomore year sneak to Iowa State, the annual Chi O barbecue, spring break in Dillon, Colorado, work week, living in the house for three years, and all of my "sisters in the bond" are such fun memories! Marilyn McCrillis Nichols '75 Q: What inspired you to become the next HCB president? A: I have always loved my sisters of Chi Omega. When I moved back to Kansas after being in Dallas, Texas, for 29 years, I couldn't wait to get involved and be a part of the HCB at Kansas State University. I was inspired by my sister, Joan, and Kim, my predecessor. Their commitment and passion for Chi Omega shows what sisterhood is all about. Q: What are you most looking forward to doing as president? A: I look forward to continued relationships and growing new relationships with the active members and alumnae nationwide. I have been to the National Convention, and I look forward to attending again. Meeting and learning from our sisters around the world is exciting and inspiring. Q: What experiences have you had that make you a good leader? A: When I was active in 1977, I was recruitment chairman. Not only was that a great memory, but it was also the beginning of my successful career. It meant so much to me that my sisters trusted me and elected me for that position. I knew I was organized, but I never knew I could be a leader. That experience boosted my self-confidence and helped me throughout my career and volunteer work. I continue to use that experience as my foundation of leadership: serving on the Chi Omega Alumnae Association of Greater Kansas City Board for several years and on the National HCB for a year. After being on Kappa Alpha's HCB for several years in various positions, I'm ready to take on the presidential role! Q: What was your initial impression of the Kappa Alpha Chapter? A: After being involved with the Chapter as an alumna for over 10 years, I am constantly impressed seeing active members not only be incredible leaders, but also prioritizing philanthropy and being recognized at the national level. Q: What were some of your favorite memories as an undergraduate? A: I have many great memories! Living in Green Hall and being one of four design students who turned the sleeping dorm into a studio stands out. Also, one of my favorite memories was the "picture manˮ at our parties—everyone wanted to have their picture taken with sisters. I am so thankful for Chi O memorabilia. Q: What advice would you give to younger alumnae who are early in their careers? A: Frame the Chi Omega Symphony and read it frequently. Do not lose meaning of sisterhood. If you make a daunting career move, trust that there will always be a sister close by. Kim Elston Jacobson '80 and Marilyn McCrillis Nichols '75 at the National Convention in 2015. One of Marilyn's favorite memories was the "picture man" at their parties. Everyone wanted to have their picture taken by him. Lisa Gerstner Mallder '76 with her husband (left) and Marilyn McCrillis Nichols '75 with her husband.

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