Kappa Alpha Chapter of Chi Omega Fraternity at Kansas State University
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/913708
Χ Ω 2 The Cardinal and Straw A CALLING TO SERVE Welcome, Fall 2017 Pledge Class Women from our new member pledge class throw what they know at our 1970s-themed Bid Day. We are so lucky to have them! B eing raised by Greek-member parents, Nancy Giesch Ingram '73 saw her parents' love for fellowship and knew she wanted to be involved philanthropically during her time at Kansas State. She came to the university with the intention of joining a sorority and found her perfect fit of friendships and service in Chi Omega. "I knew I would love the friendships and connections," she said. "Since learning the Symphony, I have had it posted close to me at home and work as a reminder of its truths. 'Womanly always, discouraged never.' I have repeated this quietly and often through the years." As an undergraduate, Nancy served the Chapter as pledge trainer, which was a perfect fit. Though she has too many memories to narrow down her favorite, she adored holding this position and the relationships it helped build with her sisters. "My advice to sisters would be to be brave. Trying something new throughout your lives in not only invigorating, but you will land in places you never imagined," she said. "Living life is so important. Be a good spectator too, but put yourself out there from time to time." Upon graduation, Nancy's first position was with Head Start in northeast Kansas as a nutrition coordinator. Throughout the years, her career path has been nontraditional and included work in dietetics and nutrition, teaching at Emporia State University, serving as the executive director of the Olathe Public Schools Foundation, and as volunteer services manager at Olathe Medical Center. She also served as a member of the Olathe Planning Commission. "I love being part of a team and each of these have provided the opportunity to work beside wonderful people," she said. Nancy's involvement with the Olathe Public Schools Foundation began as a member of the founding board. When the director left, she filled the position and remained executive director for five and a half years. She continues to serve on the board and is also a trustee at Johnson County Community College. "I love the work we do to support our students, staff, and community," she said. "It is an honor to participate as a public servant in this capacity." Today, Nancy is a support staff member at Penwell Gabel funeral home in Olathe. Her dedication to service throughout the years was rooted by her father continuously saying "if we all did our part." "My service is privately an ode to my parents and family. I do not offer this statement lightly, as it truly is in their honor I serve. I cannot perform wholeheartedly without the support of family and friends." Nancy and her husband, Steve, a former educator and coach, have three adult children and five beautiful and fun grandchildren. The couple enjoys anything from a quiet cup of coffee together to attending events, cheering on the Wildcats, and traveling. "Find a quiet time in your day for you. Have fun. If it isn't fun, why are you doing it?" Nancy can be reached at ngi1475@ gmail.com or (913) 461-5381. Madison Anderes* Emily Bohn Kennedy Bohn Lauren Burnett* Mia Campanelli Olivia Chapman* Daja Coker Marian Cruz Myka Dalton Abby Eskina* Sarah Harper* Paige Hartzler Jenna Headley Paige Heiger Caroline Holgerson Emily Homolka Sydney Hookstra Carissa Jonak Courtney Jones Sophie Justus* Ellie Keating Caroline Fullerton Angela Gaggiano Olivia Gassman Sydney Gerfen Jordyn Granger Kinlee Kloiber Addison Klover Lexi Koch Kara Krannawitter Jena LaValle Natalie Leonard* Brooke Loiacono Danielle Mansfield Tatum Mays Cecilia Nancarrow Emma Pater* Kat Rouse* Lindsay Schaller Lauren Schath Sydney Schmanke Stephanie Smith Christina Tran Emma Turner* Cara Unruh Taylor Wells* * Legacy