Alpha Chi Omega - University of Nebraska-Lincoln

P A G E 3 | T H E L Y R E L E T T E R M oving from sunny California to the heart of Nebraska, Renata Guzman Washa '12 found herself in search of community and belonging. She discovered both and much more in Alpha Chi Omega's Xi Chapter. "I fell in love with AXO and all of the people in it instantly," she recalled. "The women in the house were welcoming, and I could see myself fitting in with them so well." One of the things Renata admires most about Xi Chapter is its commitment to tradition and sisterhood. "Xi's identity is so strong and unique," she said. The chapter also prides itself on supporting sisters who have built businesses and maintained connections beyond college life. "I love seeing how our sisters succeed and stay connected after graduation." Renata's fondest memories from her time in the chapter house are woven with friendship and shared experiences. "When I lived in the house, we had a big sectional in the basement," she said. "One of my favorite memories was spending a three- day weekend binge watching our favorite TV shows and eating junk food!" She also cherished the ritual of getting ready with her sisters on weekend nights, the music blaring, clothes being shared, and laughter filling every corner. As an undergraduate, Renata took on leadership roles that deepened her involvement and appreciation for the organization by serving as vice president of risk management. Holding multiple cabinet positions, she gained insights into the chapter's inner workings. Her experiences prepared her for the path she would eventually take as an alumna volunteer. After graduating with a degree in broadcast journalism, Renata's commitment to Alpha Chi Omega only grew stronger. She began volunteering during recruitment week and later joined the board in 2018. By 2020, she stepped into the role of chapter advisor. "To say my first couple of years were a challenge would be an understatement," she admitted. Despite the trials, she cites the chapter's recovery as one of her proudest moments. "The day we were able to announce all their efforts had finally paid off was unforgettable. I still cry thinking about how happy I was!" Renata encourages current undergraduates to "do all the things" by attending sisterhoods, working with philanthropies, and everything in between. "It seems like a lot when you're in the moment, but you only have four years in the chapter—it goes by faster than you can imagine." Today, Renata lives in Lincoln, Nebraska, with her husband, Alex, and their young son, Wes. She works as an operations business specialist for Futurity First Insurance Group and helps her husband run their landscaping business. In her spare time, she's designing their "forever home," a project she hopes to complete by next fall. Reflecting on her journey with Xi Chapter, Renata encourages other alumnae to get involved. "It is such a small-time commitment, but it makes a world of difference for the women in the chapter," she emphasized. "We love having new and fresh ideas brought to the table!" If you'd like to reconnect with Renata, you can send an email to renatawasha@gmail.com. Welcome, Welcome, New New Members! Members! X i Chapter welcomed nine new members this spring. We couldn't be happier to grow our community and cannot wait to see the amazing things they'll achieve! EMILEE ANDERSON EMILEE ANDERSON ASHLEY CROOK ASHLEY CROOK HAILEY KILL HAILEY KILL ADDISON PETERSON ADDISON PETERSON ELIANNA ROBBINS ELIANNA ROBBINS EMMA SHAW EMMA SHAW JOSIE SIGNOR JOSIE SIGNOR ADRIEN THOMPSON ADRIEN THOMPSON From Member to Mentor Email nbaldwin@penningtonco.com with "AXO Nebraska Spotlight" in the subject with your suggestions and let us know what makes this sister stand out. WHO SHOULD WE CATCH UP WITH NEXT? EVERY ALUMNA HAS A STORY! REN A TA GUZ MAN G ET T O KNO W VOL UNTEE R W A SHA '12 Carnation Column Beverly Gable Walker '47 July 1, 2023 Jenny Lee Engel-O'Gorman '93 June 5, 2025

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