Alpha Chi Omega - University of Nebraska-Lincoln

ACADEMICS We're pleased to report that we secured a cumulative GPA of 3.37 in fall 2023! In addition, 19 sisters maintained a 4.0 last semester. We continue to push for excellence when it comes to our academic pursuits. SCHOLARSHIPS A new scholarship was created this year for upperclassmen looking to live in the chapter facility. We're excited for this year's winners: Alania Tomesh '21 and Emma Osborne '21. Flip to page 4 to read more about them and this new scholarship initiative. STUDYING ABROAD Amber Hanson '21 is spending her spring semester in Barcelona, while Jordan Horky '21 is studying in Thailand. We are excited to hear about our sisters' amazing stories and become reacquainted with them on their return this fall! PHILANTHROPY We have hosted some thrilling philanthropy events this spring. Our first was Strength and Strides, a partnership with Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. This event encouraged other Greek chapters to create small teams and participate in a wide range of relay races and other activities. All proceeds supported the Friendship Home, a local shelter for survivors of domestic violence. We're proud to support this amazing non-profit for another year! DEI Earlier this year, we had the opportunity to bring in alumna Ericka Jones '96 to host a diversity, equity, and inclusion seminar. The women learned many lessons and acquired skills to bring back to the chapter and incorporate into their everyday lives. As a chapter, this semester has been all about bonding as sisters, improving our academics, and strengthening our love and appreciation for this chapter and its history! We look forward to spending the rest of the semester together before we head off for summer break. Loyally in the Bond, Emma Osborne '21 Chapter President T H E L Y R E L E T T E R | P A G E 2 "I can't imagine coming to college without the immediate support and friendship group that becoming a member of AXO provided." Although Sara Adkins Skretta '88 had a rich family connection with Alpha Chi Omega, she initially was not sure she wanted to follow in the footsteps of her grandmother, mother, and aunt. When the time came to participate in recruitment, however, AXO rose to the top. "The chapter did a great job of making me feel wanted and comfortable," she recalled. "It was an easy choice." As an undergraduate, Sara was elected as chapter president, a position she credits with providing crucial leadership skills. "Shouldering the responsibility of making the right and final decision, even if it is not always popular, was hard, but I learned my team was depending on me to be strong enough to embrace that role." That strength and determination aided Sara as she pursued a bachelor's in English education and a master's and a doctorate in education administration. "The leadership roles and campus involvement opportunities There's Always More to Learn There's Always More to Learn Sara Adkins Skretta '88 Shares How AXO Helps Her Succeed I experienced with AXO also made me fall in love with UNL," she said. She returned to the university and now works as the senior director of accreditation, placement, and licensure at the College of Education and Human Sciences. She also coordinates the educator preparation program placements and certification. As a local alumna, Sara is proud of how well Xi Chapter's graduated sisters continue to support chapter activities and events. "That commitment Excelling in Harmony Excelling in Harmony Undergraduates Grow in Service and Sisterhood Freshman sisters enjoy their first formal of the spring semester. From right: Cece Crisman '23, Ally Fortney '23, Maizy Jones '23, Mackenzie Lewis '23, and Hailey Kiscoan '23. reflects the positive experiences our alumnae had as undergraduates," she said. "And their support, given in the form of resources, time, or funding for scholarships, is what enables the chapter to excel in its operations, maintain a comfortable house, and help young women to shine academically." When the opportunity arises to give some advice, Sara encourages current undergraduates to get involved with at least one thing outside of AXO. "It provides perspective and experience and helps to build a network for the future." She also recommends they engage with at least one thing within AXO. "Whether it's a committee, an office, or a short-term project, the skills you can gain are so valuable!" Sara and her husband live in Lincoln and are now empty nesters. "Our four boys are either working or in school, and we love to connect with them when we can!" The couple loves to travel and enjoy lake life. They remain avid Husker fans and find that socializing with friends and family always brings lots of laughter—one of their top priorities in life. If you'd like to connect with Sara, you can send her an email at saraskretta@gmail.com.

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