Sigma Kappa - Purdue University

L ike many young women starting college, Leslie Armour '83 was nervous about "the great unknown" during this formative life stage. Sigma Kappa provided a support system when she needed it most, and Leslie remains grateful for the Beta Sigma experience and sisterhood that influenced her personal and professional development. Seeking Sisterhood As a freshman living off-campus due to a housing shortage, Leslie initially found her college experience isolating and lonely. Following advice of her senior-year roommate, she hesitantly decided to explore Greek life, which was entirely new to her. Leslie faced the daunting task of attending sorority open houses and was nearly ready to forgo Greek life altogether. However, her decision changed after one final house visit, where she met Ann Lyons-Tanaka '81. "She was so genuine… her presence was calming, nurturing, and supportive. No surprise, she became my pledge mom." Living in the Beta Sigma house with girls of diverse backgrounds and ambitions taught Leslie how to effectively nurture, support, and motivate others. The music that filled the house hallways, reflecting various emotions from love to stress, revealed the profound impact of emotional connections. These experiences in personal dynamics and the emotional power of music played a pivotal role in shaping her unconventional career path. Tuned in to Marketing After graduating from Purdue, inspired by her self-employed parents, Leslie founded her own marketing firm. Her insights into youth and social dynamics drove over $1 billion in sales for brands like Coca-Cola, Nickelodeon, McDonald's, Limited Too, and Target. Recognizing the role of music, Leslie partnered with music labels including Sony Music and Universal Music, promoting emerging artists. Her success with the Jonas Brothers, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift and others inspired her to create an entertainment division focusing on artist development and management. Early achievements included three number-one Billboard records, collaborations with Simon Cowell, and talent scouting for American Idol and X-Factor. "Nurturing new talent and helping them achieve their dreams has been incredibly rewarding." Personal Connections Though her C-Suite advisor work and entertainment company keep her busy, Leslie treasures her lifelong Sigma Kappa bonds. The 75th reunion event was a great opportunity to reconnect with fellow alumnae to reminisce and share life stories. "I have kept in touch with a few of my sisters. These connections have been incredibly rewarding, offering a continued sense of support and sisterhood." Leslie cherishes her family support system, including her husband of 30 years, a supportive father and brother, her inspirational late mother, and her sweet daughter. Though her daughter was adopted, born an addict, Leslie and her husband are grateful for the rewarding opportunity to guide her from foster care to becoming a responsible and compassionate adult who now works with special needs children. Leslie also enjoys caring for rescued furry babies, including a baby raccoon. 4 THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT W e appreciate the following donors who contributed to the Beta Sigma Endowed Scholarship Fund through the Sigma Kappa Foundation between July 1–December 31, 2023. This fund awards a $2,500 scholarship to a Beta Sigma member through a competitive process each spring. Beta Sigma Chapter of Sigma Kappa House Corporation John Morton via the Morton Family Foundation Nancy Hanway Wagner '52 Rosanne Degise O'Neill '54 Gail Lindeman Anderson '57 Katherine Fullington Howard '58 Karen Booker Fuller '59 Suzette Elder Ragan '59 Judith Springer Hale '60 via Hale Family Foundation Elaine Janssen Cue '61 Marianne Plzak Inman '61 Carol Jewett Lyons '68 Jeanette Hardin Schollenberger '68 Paula Teske '70 Sherry Anderson, Gamma Eta '72 Patricia Frisby Galloway '76 Joanne Dance Greer '80 via Renaissance Charitable Foundation Nancy Hargrave Christmas '82 Jane Klepek LaMay '83 Margie Milligan Neff '83* Christie Gillespie '85 Barbara Burkett Meyer '87 Kari House Foote '88 *Deceased Our deepest thanks to the following alumnae who contributed to the House Corporation in 2023. Your contributions support chapter house operations and improvements. Jean Crail '55 Joy Melton Huder '55 Dana Wagner Long '56 Patricia Jarboe Buchanan '59 Karen Booker Fuller '59 Elaine Janssen Cue '61 Marianne Plzak Inman '61 Jeanette Owens Guthrie '64 Keri Shaffer Safranski '67 Lynn Cullings Thompson '69 Anne Sanchelli Schoen '72 Connie Tillery Nowell '76 Nancy Briles '81 Janice Berner Smith '84 Rebecca Liley-Wagner '85 Kacy Achin Lubash '85 Marion Haerle '86 Jackie Jensen Perdue '98 Mae Council Sheaffer '08 DONATE TODAY! Have you supported Beta Sigma Chapter recently? See page 2 to learn how you can contribute to the scholarship fund or House Corporation Board. "The greatest aspects of being a Sigma Kappa are the relationships, experiences, and memories that last a lifetime." The Rhythm of Sisterhood Leslie Armour '83 on Beta Sigma, Brand and Marketing Strategizing, and Talent Scout and Management You can connect with Leslie at leslie@newentertainmentcompany.com.

• Cover