Kappa Kappa Gamma - University of Arizona

KAPPA KAPPA GAMMA 3 Georgia Lybarger '24 (left) and Devin Ewald '24 help end the spring season with our flower bouquet sisterhood event. Ashley Eng '24 (left) and Nadia Smith '24 enjoy one of many fun game days! Kappa Krush 2025! From left: Erin Becker '24, Avery Dardar '24, Ande McLean '24, and Maddie Novotny '24. Women We Love weekend 2025. We had so much fun line dancing with our favorite ladies at The Maverick! From left: Paris Mitchell '24 and her mom. W hen I joined Kappa Kappa Gamma in 1979, I had no idea how much it would shape my life. My brother, Tom, was a Phi Gamma Delta (FIJI) at the University of Arizona, and after seeing the fun he was having, I decided to go through recruitment. I didn't know what to expect since none of the women in my family had been in sororities, but I took a chance—and I'm so glad I did. Gamma Zeta Chapter was everything I could have hoped for. The members welcomed me with open arms during recruitment, making me feel at ease. Kappa was, and still is, one of the top sororities at Arizona, which made me proud to be part of something so special. We all knew each other, attended countless activities together, and built a sisterhood rooted in respect and kindness. Even now as an alumna, I still carry that pride with me. During my time in the chapter, I held a few leadership positions. I was the registrar back when everything had to be recorded by hand in a historical book—no computers! I also served as social chairman, organizing parties and "TGs" (happy hours) before there were big budgets or committees. Living in the house brought some of my best memories—hanging out on the balcony, watching fraternities serenade us, or just people-watching on 2nd Street. Rooming with different sisters each semester strengthened my friendships. Even small things like answering the house phone or greeting dates at the door made life in the Kappa house feel special. After earning my bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master's in teaching and teacher education, I spent 30 years teaching kindergarten through second grade in the Tucson Unified School District. Initially, I thought I'd follow in my brother and uncle's footsteps by pursuing business, but after struggling with accounting and economics, I followed my heart into education. It was the best decision I ever made, and I had a rewarding career helping young students grow and learn. Staying connected with Kappa as an alumna was something I came to later in life. I didn't have much time between my teaching career and my sons' sports schedules, but after retiring, I attended a Kappa luncheon at Oro Valley Country Club (the same place where I had my wedding reception!). That day, I reconnected with so many wonderful women, and before I knew it, I became president of the KKG Alumnae Association of Tucson in 2019. It has been a fulfilling experience ever since. Being a Kappa is for life. The values set by our six Founders in 1870 still hold true today. I've run into Kappas in the most unexpected places—our bonds really do extend across the globe! If you move to a new city, find a local alumnae group. Staying connected makes all the difference. Today, my husband Patrick and I are enjoying retirement in Tucson. He recently retired as general manager of the historic Arizona Inn. Our son, Timothy, is a CPA in Tucson, while Matthew, our younger son, lives in Phoenix and works as an accountant. We hope to travel more in the coming years, both around the U.S. and internationally! Loyally, Susan White Cray '80 susancray50@gmail.com Leading with Love Susan White Cray '80 Shares Her Volunteer Journey "Kappa Kappa Gamma has given me so much, and I'm grateful to continue being part of this incredible sisterhood." One of my most memorable experiences as an alumna was helping organize the Gamma Zeta Centennial in January 2020. With over 400 attendees, it was a massive undertaking, but incredibly rewarding. It reminded me how strong our sisterhood remains, decade after decade. If you're considering getting involved, take the leap—you'll be amazed by the friendships and experiences waiting for you!

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