Xi Chapter of Alpha Chi Omega at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
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T H E L Y R E L E T T E R | P A G E 2 C ourtney Ellis '96 grew up hearing the stories and witnessing the strong friendships her parents gained in Alpha Chi Omega and Lambda Chi Alpha at The University of Alabama. She knew she wanted that sense of community and lifetime experience. Although she was an Alpha Chi legacy, choosing a sisterhood was not an easy decision; however, she felt at home at Xi Chapter. "I believed their commitment to fostering lifelong friendships and personal growth would provide me with the opportunities and support I needed to thrive both academically and socially." Throughout college, Courtney had many experiences she fondly remembers today: traveling to football games with her sisters, taking annual class photos at Sunken Gardens on Bid Day, and hiding desserts in their laps at formal Monday chapter dinner so they would be served more. "The sense of camaraderie and shared experiences from my undergraduate days always brings back a flood of wonderful memories, reminding me why Alpha Chi remains such an important part of my life," she shared. The sense of sisterhood and community has motivated her to remain involved, and she has proudly served Alpha Chi since graduation. Courtney has served Alpha Chi Omega at the local, regional, and national levels. "Most recently, my service to the National Panhellenic Conference provided the opportunity to serve as a champion for Alpha Chi Omega and the sorority experience at large," she shared. "Over the years as a member of our delegation, NPC area advisor, and Chief Panhellenic Officer, I dedicated myself to advancing the shared goals of Alpha Chi Omega by working to improve the Panhellenic experience at large." For her service to the sisterhood, Courtney was recently honored to receive the Outstanding Dedication Award from Nationals. "It was a humbling recognition of my commitment to the sorority and the values we share," she said. "Knowing that my contributions have had a positive impact on the organization and my fellow sisters made this award even more meaningful. It reinforced my belief in the importance of staying engaged and giving back to the community that has given me so much." In her career, Courtney serves as a strategic account director for a leading marketing and digital agency in Denver, Colorado. The experience has been incredibly fulfilling, allowing her to harness her skills in crafting powerful messages and driving impactful brand and PR campaigns. It has been an exciting journey to see the direct influence of her work on her client's success. You can connect with Courtney at ellis.courtney@gmail.com. Courtney ellis '96 on remaining Committed as an alumna Always Serving Alpha Chi Always Serving Alpha Chi ACADEMICS ACADEMICS Every year, we strive to improve our academics. I am proud to report that Alpha Chi received a 3.43 GPA this past spring, which surpassed our previous average of 3.37. We are excited to recognize the women who also received a 4.0 GPA for the semester. This fall, we're committed to continuing to improve and beat our own records. PHILANTHROPY PHILANTHROPY Last year, Alpha Chi raised $18,000 for domestic violence awareness and sexual assault prevention, and we are motivated to continue to fundraise and raise awareness. This past spring, we were excited to bring back annual philanthropy events while introducing some new activities. Our first event of the semester, Pizza Pie with Alpha Chi, was hosted in the chapter house in partnership with Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. Additionally, we hosted Raising the Roof with Sigma Phi Epsilon. This event was a favorite for undergraduates and other attendees due to the Raising Cane's meals we were able to provide. A YEAR IN REVIEW Courtney (third from right) with Xi Chapter's delegation at the AXO National Convention in Indiana. Chapter President Emma Osborne '21 and VP Intellectual Development Mckenzie Balis '21 attend Alpha Chi Omega National Convention. "By staying involved, I have contributed to the ongoing development of the organization, mentored young members, and made alumnae friendships across that country that have profoundly impacted my life." (Continued on page 3)