Alpha Gamma Delta - University of Alabama

Spring 2014 The Squirrel's Nest p S i C h a p t e r o f a l p h a g a m m a D e l t a a t t h e u n i v e r S i t y o f a l a b a m a F all semester was a trying time for the entire Greek system at the University of Alabama. The sororities were accused of racial discrimination when several highly qualified African-American women chose to go through recruitment with the traditionally white Greek groups in August. It was the 50th anniversary of the integration of the Capstone and, while there have been minorities pledged in the past, a low number was pledged this year during formal recruitment. There are many successful predominantly African- American Greek organizations on campus, but the two governing groups Panhellenic and PanHellenic have operated side by side while recruiting at different times for many years. Students spoke out against the systems in place and an organic change took place within the chapters themselves wanting to be more inclusive and diverse. The University responded with continuous open bidding following formal recruitment and most of the sororities at Alabama pledged minority students during the fall semester. Alpha Gam is proud to be one of those groups. While much of what was reported by the media was not accurate, and many devoted alumnae advisors have suffered unfair criticism, there have been many positive changes made by both the University and the Greek organizations. New Recruitment Guidelines Prior to last fall's events, Alpha Gamma Delta International was already in the process of test piloting a new recruitment program on several campuses. Those test pilots went well and will be implemented at both Alabama and Auburn this fall. The new program will be implemented fraternity wide in 2015. Jackie Stutts, AGD International president, reached out to a group of Psi advisors and alumnae club officers to explain the new programs and policies in January of this year. As a result of that dialogue, she began meeting with alumnae clubs from across the state in February to inform our alumnae about the new pilot program. These meetings will help us understand the revised recommendation and recruiting process. House Update On a happier note, the women continue to love their new house. As alumnae, we are enjoying the low maintenance aspects of a newer home. The only things we've had to repair are a water leak from the second floor into the dining room this past summer, which was covered by the contractors' warranty. Over Christmas break, the new marble floors, carpets, tiles, and sofas were all cleaned for around $4,000. Upkeep on a big house with 300+ women in and out of there is ongoing as one can imagine. We still have a few items we want to add to finish our decorating, but all in all the house has been so comfortable and livable for the ladies and such a needed space for our chapter. Loyally, Nancy Richeson Siniard '74 nsiniard@totalcommarketing.com Alumnae Prepare for New Recruitment Guidelines Psi Chapter Overcomes Trying Fall Semester A Message from International P si Chapter continues to be supported by the international fraternity's volunteer and staff leadership. Most recently, the newly installed officers traveled to Indianapolis for intense officer training. The opportunity to spend time at the new international headquarters February 7–9 was a special treat in addition to the education provided by both volunteers and staff. To assist the chapter in moving forward, there is a monthly support plan that extends until September 2014 that provides on-campus assistance for several key events. The collegiate officers and chapter are being empowered to determine their vision for the chapter and university community. International President Jackie Brannon Stutts and a representative from the recruitment team will be presenting additional support plans and recruitment best practices at statewide alumnae gatherings. In February, representatives met with alumnae in Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, and Birmingham. Additional gatherings for March are being planned in Auburn, Florence, Mobile, Montgomery, and Troy. The date, time, and place will be announced by local alumnae once confirmed. All alumnae are invited to attend. Please plan to attend these gatherings to learn how we can all move forward together. Psi Chapter has a strong, rich history with the fraternity. The maturity and poise of the collegiate women is an additional point of pride for all members. By working together, we can overcome the difficulties and enjoy an optimistic future as we Live with Purpose. Alumna Teaches Women and Men of All Ages What Not to Wear W hen Lisa Randolph Berger '78 came to the University of Alabama, she was lucky to already have friends in Alpha Gamma Delta. "I really liked the girls in the chapter, and it seemed like the best place to be," she said. "Looking back now, it is the friendships I made there that have had the most lasting impact on me." After earning her bachelor's degree in advertising and public relations, Lisa began designing her own handbags through her company, Tallula Tate Handbags. The bags (Continued on page 2)

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