Gamma Zeta Chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at the University of Arizona
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1512343
G A M M A Z E T A C H A P T E R O F K A P P A K A P P A G A M M A A T T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F A R I Z O N A FA L L KEYping Up with Kappa 2 0 2 3 W hen Kerstin Berg Harper '00 and her family moved back to Tucson about three years ago, she decided to get more active as a Gamma Zeta alumna. She reached out and found herself on the House Corporation Board, where she now serves as vice president. "Kappa brought me my best girlfriends, and 20 years later we're still there for each other," she said. "I wanted to help today's sisters have the same great experience in the chapter house." Leah Sullivan Evans '96, fellow board member and president, is passionate about giving back, which made joining the board an easy choice as well. "High school taught me the importance of philanthropy, and Kappa allowed me to continue that on a large campus," she explained. "When you give back, you grow as a person and learn what's important about life." Both alumnae agree that they've had an "awesome" time on the board, working with our younger sisters and communicating with alumnae. "It's refreshing to see the new generation learn our traditions and find out what they're capable of," Leah said. "I grew so much as a Kappa in my four years, and I can see them grow too." "It's an honor to provide guidance and a safe living environment, and we hope one day they'll look back as fondly as we have," Kerstin added. What's the Board Like? Right now, the House Corporation Board has five members, including a treasurer and two members at large. Leah and Kerstin are the active chapter's main points of contact for any day-to-day needs. All members share a goal of keeping the facility safe and secure for our undergraduate sisters. The board is currently seeking a secretary to take notes during meetings as well as a few more members at large. "Anyone with the desire to give back and make an impact is welcome to apply," Kerstin said. "As they say, many hands make light work," Leah added. The time commitment isn't huge: although the board stays in close contact should issues arise, official meetings are approximately once a month during the school year (August through May). Living in the Tucson area is a plus, but long-distance applicants are encouraged as well if willing to join meetings virtually. "I've been on boards where you just sit around and talk, but there's something different about this one," Leah said. "We're active and we get to make meaningful decisions for an organization that we love. It's fun to reflect on your youth while getting things done." "The sisters notice the work we do, and it's nice to be involved and appreciated," Kerstin shared. To apply for the board or learn more, contact Leah at leahs65@comcast.net! Upcoming House Projects I f you aren't able to volunteer your time, financial contributions are always welcome! Like any home, our chapter house has various maintenance needs and costs to take care of. You can lend a hand with a gift. Instructions are on the back or the enclosed envelope. Any amount will help with our needed projects! » Paint living spaces (approx. $50,000) » Upgrade air conditioning in main house (approx. $75,000) » Reupholster living room furniture (approx. $5,000) » Update mini kitchen (approx. $40,000) » Revamp landscaping in front yard (approx. $60,000) Continuing Our Commitment WHY THE HOUSE CORPORATION BOARD IS WORTH YOUR TIME Get to Know Leah and Kerstin! Profession Kerstin: Project manager for an interior designer Leah: High school counselor and therapist Favorite movie(s) Leah: "The Notebook and My Best Friend's Wedding." Kerstin: "Clueless!" Favorite food Kerstin: "Mexican!" Leah: "Mine's gotta be pizza from Chicago." Favorite sports team Both: "Arizona Wildcats, obviously!" Favorite hobby Leah: "Tennis and scrapbooking." Kerstin: "Do moms have hobbies?! Just kidding—tennis." Kerstin Leah