KD Connect

KD Connect for Alumnae - October 1, 2009

KD Connect

October 1, 2009

FEATURED IN THIS EDITION:

Click links to go directly to listed article

A Conversation with Lynn R. Lamont, author of Sign Baby Sign

The Blessings of Bread - Patricia "Sister Schubert" Barnes

Barbara Reichert, Sigma Kappa - Ohio State named Student of the Month

Beta Tau - Vanderbilt Celebrates National Women's Friendship Month

All Our Triumphs

What's Going on in the KD Foundation?

Do you know a future KD CDC?

Go Confidently in Your Kappa Delta Letters

Helping while Searching!

RENEW, RENEW, RENEW--Wouldn't you rather have your money go to Kappa Delta?

Nu - Oklahoma State Planning Anniversary Celebration

Beta Rho - San Diego State University Planning 60th Anniversary

Gamma Beta - North Texas Hosting House Dedication and Open House

Delta Delta - Troy University Reunion Planned

Delta Gamma - Western Kentucky Planning Reunion

Save the Date! Texas State Day Being Planned

Events and Opportunities

A Conversation with Lynn R. Lamont author of Sign Baby Sign

by Lynn Lamont, Alpha Alpha - Michigan State

1. What is Sign Baby Sign? Where did the concept for the book come from?
Sign Baby Sign, LLC is the company that I started in 2004. I have been instructing parent workshops on baby sign language using American Sign Language (ASL) under the company name. I am the sole owner of this company. The concept for the book came from an article in the New York Times on the first page of the Health and Fitness Section, page D5 on Tuesday, January 6, 2004. It was titled “Before Baby Talk, Signs and Signals.” It was a full-page article with five photos of babies, averaging 12 months in age, who were signing! I was amazed; this was the first time I had heard of baby sign language. I then purchased the book Baby Signs by Dr. Linda Acredolo and Dr. Susan Goodwyn, from California. It was a full instructional manual for parents and professionals who wanted to use sign language with their babies before the onset of speech.

2. How long did it take you to write this book? What was involved? Tell us about the research and background.
It took four years to complete my book Sign Baby Sign. I was interpreting in Michigan public schools at the time, using ASL, so I could not devote myself to writing the book full time. My interpreter colleagues were appalled that ASL was not being used as the foundation for baby sign programs across the United States. I agreed with them and wanted to do something about it. Without ASL, baby signs were dependent upon random gestures which had no legitimate standardization and therefore were not transferable from one setting to another. I believe very strongly that the structure of an ASL base was imperative to the success of baby sign which was at the beginning of a national and international movement. I began researching the topic by studying all the books I could find about baby sign. At that time, I found very little on the use of ASL for baby signs, so I began Sign Baby Sign, LLC and started my own workshops using ASL. Little by little, I prepared worksheets for the parents to take home after the workshops ended. These worksheets included hand-drawn illustrations of 90 word signs, using ASL, which were most functional for pre-speech babies. These papers were expanded to include the how and why of using baby sign and so much more. The worksheets evolved into the book, Sign Baby Sign, which is currently being produced by my company using a private printing business.

3. Who is the target audience and why?
The book and DVD are a workshop program that may be used by anyone, anywhere. It is designed to be an easy-to-follow format for parents, families and professionals who want to communicate with their babies before they are able to speak. The benefits of using baby sign are numerous and long-lasting.

4. How is it that babies can use sign language so well? Is it easy for them? Does it hinder their ability to speak or delay the onset of speech? What are the benefits for the child, parents and family?
Signing is a natural form of communication for babies. Abundant adult repetition is necessary for the imprinting of the signs into the baby’s brain before he/she will use the signs in a meaningful way. If this is done on a regular basis every day, the baby will easily begin to sign by the ninth month or so. The average hearing baby is capable of signing 500 words! Contrary to public misconception, the use of baby sign encourages the child to speak sooner than otherwise expected. The use of signing is a natural introduction to the onset of speech. The adult signer must always use the spoken word at the same time the word is signed. The combined use of speaking and signing promotes the association of speech with each signed word for the baby. Once the child begins to use speech, he/she quickly sees that speech is much more effective and efficient than signed words. Thus, the baby will naturally stop using the signs as the ability to express needs through speech becomes increasingly perfected. This usually occurs around the age of 18 months or later.

The benefits of signing include the following:
*Research shows that signing stimulates the child’s brain development and increases IQ levels by an average of 12 points!
*Signing reduces frustrations and tantrums since the baby’s needs are conveyed and met quickly. “The Terrible Twos” are often eliminated.
*Many babies are able to use hundreds of signed words before the onset of speech, allowing them to communicate specific wants, needs and abstract thoughts.
*Research shows that signing accelerates the onset of speech. Babies who sign develop larger vocabularies and start to talk sooner than non-signing babies. The parent always provides spoken words with the signs.
*Signing gives the adult a window into the child’s mind and personality since abstract thought may be expressed.
*Signing improves parent-infant bonding, trust and communication. The signing baby has increased self-confidence and self-esteem.
*The benefits of signing provide life-long educational enhancement. Signing children are more interested in books and exhibit higher achievement in school work as the years progress.
*Baby sign provides more educational benefit than the use of any other second language (such as Spanish) due to the kinesthetic involvement and its positive effects on the baby’s brain development.

5. What were the driving factors that prompted you to be a teacher of sign language?
Both of my parents were educators: fourth grade teacher and college-level math. They said that they would support my college education if I majored in teaching or nursing so that I would be assured of professional work after 4-years of university study. I originally chose speech and language correction as my major and graduated with a bachelor's degree in speech correction from Bloomsburg University in Bloomsburg, Pa. After a successful two years as a public school speech and language pathologist in Lancaster, Pa., I was awarded a scholarship to attend Columbia University for a summer to study pre-school deaf education. I then landed a job in New Jersey as a teacher of the deaf in an elementary school. The class of 5-year-old deaf children was mainstreamed into a public school in Neptune, N.J. That was it for me. I loved working with hearing impaired children…the needs were so great and what I did for them made such a difference. I was constantly being challenged to help these kids learn to communicate and read. I was driven to perform like never before. After several years of teaching hearing-impaired classes on the elementary level, I received my masters degree from New York University. The degree was in deaf education with American Sign Language (ASL) Studies. In all, I spent 10 years teaching hearing-impaired students, eight years of the 10 were teaching using ASL. I have been involved in education since my first year of teaching in 1968. I have seen a lot of progress since then, especially for the student population of hearing-impaired children. The re-introduction of ASL to our public schools has had a profoundly positive effect on the education of our deaf population. In some states, the curriculums have been standardized for all children (No Child Left Behind). I think this has been a positive step forward. Also, many laws have been enforced to assist disadvantaged population in achieving a quality education. Much more needs to be done to help our teachers maintain their dedication to the profession. Too many good teachers are dropping out due to poor pay and benefits as compared to corporate offerings.

6. What do you see for the future of Sign Baby Sign?
The future of Sign Baby Sign is very bright and promising. I am spending a lot of time securing a literary agent and publisher so I can go national with the book and DVD. The format of the book even lends itself to being translated into foreign languages so the international audience may be provided with this vital information. Now that the book is finished and accompanied by a video of a live workshop presentation, anyone anywhere may learn about baby sign language in the convenience of her own home. The possibilities are unlimited. There are 4 million babies born every year in the United States alone.

7. Can you tell me a couple of your favorite KD moments?
The best times of my college experience at Michigan State University revolved around Kappa Delta and their brother fraternity. The social experiences were wonderful and very insightful. There were numerous parties and other events that were amazing. The people were top-notch.

8. How has KD helped you in your life and your career?
Kappa Delta has been very influential in my life even though I attended MSU for only four semesters. The sorority means the world to me. It gave me the confidence and high sense of self-worth that I needed to become a successful teacher and entrepreneur. The leadership qualities that Kappa Delta instilled in me during that time at Michigan State have stayed with me all of these years, totaling 45 now. I have accomplished so very much, and I attribute the successes mainly to my parents, my education and Kappa Delta. I believe in doing as much good as I am able while I am capable; I am willing to do the work so I can see the rewards for others. Kappa Delta taught me how to value my talents and put them to use serving the public.

Read more about Lynn at www.signbabysignasl.com.

The Blessings of Bread - Patricia "Sister Schubert" Barnes

By Patricia "Sister Schubert" Barnes, Delta Delta - Troy

reprinted from the October 2009 Guideposts

My answer to prayer was a challenge: What am I really passionate about in life?

My future should have been clear to me from the start.

From the time I was tall enough to stand on a kitchen stool and stir a pie filling or dip a finger into a pan of Mama’s fudge, I was destined to cook.

Everybody in our town of Troy, Alabama, knew it.

“Sister,” they’d say—I’m called Sister because my older sister couldn’t pronounce my real name when I was born—“want to come over and make okra patties?” Would I lend a hand with the chicken salad for the church picnic? Could I brush melted butter on my grandmother Gommey’s yeast rolls so they turned golden brown in the oven?

Of course! Cooking was what my grandmother and the other ladies in the neighborhood—Miss Pat and Miss Ann and MayMay—did, and they took me under their wing.

They showed me how to cool a custard and separate an egg and knead any dough so it was smooth as silk. Sunday lunches at Gommey’s after church were a highlight of the week.

I especially loved the smell of those Parker House-style rolls of hers—the most wonderful aroma would rise up from her oven, waft over the dishes on her sideboard and fill the whole house. It was like a second Sunday sermon calling me on the path God meant for me. If only I’d followed!

What I wanted to do was sell furniture like my daddy. In college I majored in interior design and learned all about how to run a decorating business.

Sure, I still made fudge and rolls, but just for friends and beaus. There’s nothing like some down-home cooking for a homesick college boy. I got married to one of those fellas and settled down back home in Troy to work in Daddy’s store.

Still, people were always asking me to cook for them. “Sister,” they’d say, “I’m having a dinner party on Saturday. Could you bake up four pans of your rolls for me?”

Word travels fast in a small town, and soon I was catering the whole dinner. “Sister, you did such a great party the other night…could you do one for me?”

I was working hard selling furniture, but what everybody wanted was my rolls. They were in such demand at our church bazaar that I went from baking 20 pans to 300!

Then my marriage ended. At 40, I found myself a single mom of two girls, and I worried my income from working at Daddy’s store wasn’t enough to support them. I felt so alone.

“God, I can’t do this on my own,” I prayed. “I’m in your hands now.”

The answer came back: Trust me, Sister. There’s one thing you love doing more than anything else. Do that. I knew he meant Gommey’s rolls. Could I really make a living out of them?

I baked up samples and took them around to every grocery store in a 50-mile radius. They only needed to be heated up in the oven to taste as good as Gommey’s.

“We want more,” folks said in store after store. It was the easiest sell ever. A lot easier than selling a bedroom suite.

Daddy agreed to let me turn part of his warehouse into a bakery. While I waited for the renovations to be finished, I made rolls at home. I packed them in a Styrofoam freezer chest and delivered them in our old wood-paneled station wagon.

I had customers in Birmingham, Montgomery, Dauphin and Troy, of course. But I couldn’t go much farther than Birmingham without risking a big thaw.

Sister Schubert’s Homemade Rolls grew by leaps and bounds. We took over all of Daddy’s warehouse and hired a staff. One really helpful person was a food broker named Mr. George Barnes. He expanded our distribution to major chains throughout the South. And as you might notice from my byline, he’s an even bigger part of my life because he became my husband.

We’re a big business now, but we stick to our old recipe, the one that came down to me through my family. We use fresh milk, butter, whole eggs—never any preservatives. The rolls taste just like Gommey’s.

When I pop a batch in the oven and take in that intoxicating aroma, I thank God that I finally got his message: Do what you’re meant to do!

Beta Tau - Vanderbilt Celebrates National Women's Friendship Month

On Sunday, September 27, the Beta Tau - Vanderbilt chapter hosted Girl Scouts from Nolensville, TN at their chapter house to celebrate National Women's Friendship Month. Daisy Troop 1130, Brownie Troop 1301, and two sibling Junior Girl Scouts attended with a total Girl Scout presence of 18 girls plus leaders and parents.

Chapter members prepared snacks and crafts. There were three stations for the girls to visit: one each for friendship bracelets, decorated picture frames, and decorated friendship magnets. Each craft was chosen to help teach the Girl Scouts the importance of friends and relationships with other girls.

Kimberly Phegley, Epsilon Chi - Baylor, contacted the chapter after reading about their past service to Girl Scouts to see if they had any upcoming Girl Scout activities in which her Daisy troop could participate. Courtney Goldman, Beta Tau - Vanderbilt, recommended centering the event around National Women's Friendship Month focusing on friendship oriented activities in order to emphasize the importance friends, being kind to others, and building relationships. Courtney and Kimberly discussed the other initiatives KD and Girl Scouts support such as the self-esteem and anti-bullying programs and decided that for these age levels, focusing on friendship was an ideal way to introduce the values and principles supported by the two organizations and to build a foundation on which later programs targeted toward anti-bullying and self-esteem could be layered.

Both chapter members and Girl Scouts had a wonderful time at the event, forging friendships that will carry on into the future.

Do you know a future KD CDC?

Do you know a Kappa Delta who is graduating this school year?

Why not encourage her to apply to become a 2010 chapter development consultant! For an entire year, CDCs travel across the country visiting collegiate chapters for Kappa Delta. Visits to collegiate chapters vary in purpose between recruitment assistance/planning, chapter development, officer transitions, and continuous open recruiting assistance. CDCs also assist with Kappa Delta’s colonization of brand new chapters.

A potential chapter development consultant should be a well-rounded individual with chapter office (especially Council) experience, campus involvement, a solid academic record, and good leadership and communication skills. Application packets are due by November 15th, 2009. Please visit the Kappa Delta Web site for more information.

ALL OUR TRIUMPHS

ALABAMA - It's a small KD world. Six teachers at the Cedar Park Elementary School in Selma, Ala., are KDs from the Sigma Lambda - Auburn chapter. The Kappa Deltas in this photo from bottom to top, L-R are Shannon Webster Stewart, Pre-K; Kim Owen Robertson, reading coach; Laurie Driggers Manderson, 2nd grade; Dawn Smith Beeers, 2nd grade, Peggy Owen Peak, special education; and Doll Wilkinson Cowart, principal. (submitted by the Selma, Ala., alumnae chapter)

ALABAMA - Several Kappa Deltas from the late 70's and early 80's met at the Auburn vs. West Virginia Game for friendship and fun at a tailgate party. They gathered with other friends from fraternities and sororities from the same time period. The children attending were able to have great quality time as well. The Sigma Nu fraternity boys at Auburn gave us a spot on their lawn and were perfectly charming. They even set up our tent! Everyone had a great day, and even the rain did not spoil our fun. The day ended with a great win. War Eagle! (submitted by the Selma, Ala., alumnae chapter)

CALIFORNIA - Newport Harbor, Calif., alumnae chapter members enjoyed an end-of-summer picnic at the home of Kathy Tucker. L-R: Sharon Olsen, Sarah Allen, Debbi Kulick, Kathy Tucker, Barbara Harrington, and Sue Myers. (submitted by the Newport Harbor, Calif., alumnae chapter)

FLORIDA - The Orlando-Winter Park, Fla., alumnae chapter gathered at Farris & Foster's Chocolate Factory on September 2, 2009 for a sweet evening, celebrating old and new friendships. This was our Kick-off event for the year, as well as our NWFM function. Everyone enjoyed creating chocolate treats to take home. (submitted by theOrlando-Winter Park, Fla., alumnae chapter)

GEORGIA - The Atlanta Night, Ga., alumnae chapter celebrated National Women's Friendship Month by spending a Sunday afternoon at a spa in Buckhead treating themselves to a mani/pedi day. (submitted by the Atlanta Night, Ga., alumnae chapter)

GEORGIA - The Atlanta Night, Ga., alumnae chapter supported the Delta Psi - West Georgia chapter of KD by attending the chapter's housewarming in September. It was a great opportunity to get to know the girls and see their amazing new house! (submitted by the Atlanta Night, Ga., alumnae chapter)

GEORGIA - The Atlanta Night, Ga., alumnae chapter held an end-of-summer gathering at Rosa Mexicano's in Atlantic Station. Members met for good food and sisterhood, celebrating the successes of the group's summer events and looking forward to fall. (submitted by the Atlanta Night, Ga., alumnae chapter)

GEORGIA - The Atlanta Night, Ga., alumnae chapter held a new member event at Fado's Irish Pub. There was an amazing turn out. KD's from all over the country took part in the event and were excited to learn about the alumnae chapter. (submitted by the Atlanta Night, Ga., alumnae chapter)

GEORGIA - The Greater Atlanta Day, Ga., alumnae chapter started celebrating National Women's Friendship Month early on August 15 when they held their summer luncheon and the theme was friendships. On all the tables were wonderful quotes on friendship. Some members sent e-cards and e-mails to all members and some collegiate chapters, and others called friends or sent friendship cards. All members received the KD friendship post card. Members also are reaching out to help women in need. The chapter held a purse drive for Dress for Success and collected purses valued at $1,060. Members are collecting toiletries for the Mary Hall Freedom House and paper goods for the Interfaith Outreach House. The chapter collected book bags valued at $360 and notebooks worth $59 for The Rainbow House. The Greater Atlanta Day, Ga., alumnae chapter will continue all year with the outreach through friendship to others who need us. (submitted by the Greater Atlanta, Ga., Day alumnae chapter)

KENTUCKY - Jacquelyn McGhee and Tara Gabaldon, both Western Kentucky University - Delta Gamma alumnae, raised money and walked in the 2009 Bowling Green Memory Walk for the Alzheimer's Association. (submitted by Tara Gabaldon)

NEW YORK - Members of the New York, N.Y., alumnae chapter celebrated National Women's Friendship Month with a picnic on Governor's Island. Everyone in attendance had a great time visiting with friends. (submitted by the New York, N.Y., alumnae chapter)

OHIO - Beta Mu KD's along with their CAB chair Tara Hastings and her mother, a 12-year breast cancer survivor, took part in the 16th annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Toledo, Ohio. (submitted by Tara Hastings)

OHIO - Members of the Cleveland West, Ohio, alumnae chapter held a kick-off meeting in September, sporting college sweatshirts, T-shirts and school colors. Members enjoyed visiting with each other and planning for the upcoming year. (submitted by the Cleveland West, Ohio, alumnae chapter)

OHIO - Members of the Cleveland West, Ohio, alumnae chapter hosted a National Women's Friendship Day event at a local knitting shop and learned how to knit baby hats. Members enjoyed getting together to celebrate friendship. (submitted by the Cleveland West, Ohio, alumnae chapter)

OHIO - The Dayton, Ohio, alumnae chapter celebrated National Women's Friendship Month with a brunch Saturday, September 26. The Kappa Delta sisters brought all the food for their non-KD guests. We collected socks and underwear to be donated to the YWCA Women's Shelter in downtown Dayton. Everyone received a NWFM magnet along with green and white mints. Three lucky ladies were able to take the beautiful mum centerpieces home with them. A wonderful time was had by all and everyone looks forward to next year!

TENNESSEE - Members of the Nashville, Tenn., alumnae chapter and Beta Tau -Vanderbilt enjoyed an evening at Sunset Grill Restaurant in Nashville to celebrate the beauty of friendship. The event to commemorate National Women's Friendship Month was held on September 17. (submitted by the Nashville, Tenn., alumnae chapter)

TEXAS - The Richardson/Plano, Texas, alumnae chapter celebrated National Women’s Friendship Month with an event at The Forum at Park Lane in North Dallas on Saturday, September 26. More than 30 Kappa Delta members, mothers, daughters and friends socialized with a dozen women who reside in the independent-living apartments at The Forum. While enjoying dessert, coffee and tea, the women learned about NWFM, which was created by Kappa Delta in 1999 as National Women’s Friendship Day to recognize the important roles women friends play in sustaining each other and giving life depth. It was extended to the entire month of September this year. In addition, Texas District 102 House of Representatives member Carol Kent, whose daughter Meredith is a member of the Richardson/Plano KD chapter, presented a resolution recognizing the chapter’s accomplishments and National Women's Friendship Month in Texas. Following this, some of the women regaled the group with stories about their best friend ever, longest friendship and funniest thing they ever did with a friend. To cap off the afternoon, a lively jewelry exchange ensued where women were able to select a “new” piece of jewelry from items brought by each guest from her own jewelry box. For the chapter’s philanthropy efforts, members brought stuffed animals to be donated to the Parkland Hospital Children's Victim Intervention Unit and household items for the new Gamma Beta chapter house at the University of North Texas. (submitted by the Richardson/Plano, Texas, alumnae chapter)

WASHINGTON - The Spokane, Wash., alumnae chapter celebrated National Women’s Friendship Month with a potluck at the Hayden Lake, Idaho home of Kay Wardell. Included in the picture are: Sue McFarlane, Willa Mae Johns, Vicky Roberge, Joan Weeks, Mary Sherwood, Lorna Litton, (Middle Row) Kay Wardell, (Seated) Barb Brown, Jane Anderson, and Betty Hoffman. (submitted by the Spokane, Wash., alumnae chapter)

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What's Going on in the KD Foundation?

Fall is a busy time of the year for the Kappa Delta Foundation. Some important things to note are:

Christmas seals - The designer of the 2009 Christmas Seal is Sarah Adlouni, a 2006 initiate of Zeta Zeta, California State University-San Bernardino. Alumnae members will be receiving their sheet of stamps before the Thanksgiving holiday to use on holiday cards and packages. Contributions to the Children in Need Fund help KD support the Girl Scouts of the USA, research awards presented to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, KiDs Grants to alumnae chapters and the Children's Hospital in Richmond, Virginia.

KiDs Grants applications due November 1, 2009 to Kappa Delta headquarters - The KiDs grants are designed to allow Kappa Delta alumnae chapters an opportunity to provide significant financial support to programs that have a direct positive effect on families and children. Through partnerships with local non-profit agencies, Kappa Delta alumnae chapters can work to improve the quality of life for KiDs, the heart of the community. Each year $25,000 is available for grant giving, with a maximum of $2,500 for any one application. Kappa Delta alumnae chapters, or a consortium of alumnae chapters, are eligible to apply for grant monies to benefit a local non-profit agency, program or event. Remember: It is the alumnae chapter that is applying, not the agency. Funds will be awarded in March 2010. Click here to find out more about the KiDs Grant program.

Scholarships - Kappa Delta scholarship forms will be available in mid-October for the academic year 2010-2011. The Kappa Delta Foundation will offer more than 60 scholarships to collegiate and alumnae members. Be sure to look for the forms on www.kappadelta.org.

Kappa Delta Foundation annual fund - The Kappa Delta Foundation annual fund letter will arrive in early October to KD alumnae members. Monies received from the annual fund supports scholarships and leadership training for Kappa Deltas throughout the country.

If you have any questions about the Kappa Delta Foundation, contact Nancy Church, foundation manager, at foundation@kappadetla.org.

Helping while Searching

Do you spend a lot of time on Google or Yahoo searching for information on the Internet? Now there is a place you can go to search the Internet while helping the Kappa Delta Foundation. www.GoodSearch.com is a new search engine, which donates 50 percent of its revenue to charitable organizations and schools that its users designate (the other 50 percent is what it uses to run the company day to day). You use GoodSearch.com like any other search engine - the site is powered by Yahoo! - but each time you do, money is generated for philanthropic causes, such as the Kappa Delta Foundation.

Here's how it works:

1. Go to www.goodsearch.com (which is powered by Yahoo!)
2. Type Kappa Delta Foundation into the "I support" box and click on "verify"
3. Since GoodSearch shares its advertising revenue with charities and schools, every time you search the Web at GoodSearch, you'll be earning money for the Kappa Delta Foundation.

Organizations earn an estimated penny per search. Hence, if 500 people searched four times a day on behalf of one organization, it would earn $7300 in a year. Think how much we could raise if we all used it!

The company launched in November 2005 and has been covered by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Variety and other publications: www.goodsearch.com/Press.aspx. GoodSearch does not require that users sign up and does not collect any user information. They only ask that organizations and supporters help spread the word.

GoodSearch was founded by a brother/sister team, both of whom have extensive and successful Internet company experience, in memory of their mother who passed away from cancer. They wanted to create an organization which gave back to the community in her honor. Their dream is to write millions of dollars worth of checks every year to good causes.

Take advantage of this very simple way to give back to the Kappa Delta Foundation. Every search will help to continue to provide leadership opportunities for collegians and alumnae and help children across the country. Every penny counts!

Barbara Reichert, Sigma Kappa - Ohio State named Student of the Month

Barbara Reichert, Sigma Kappa - Ohio State, a fourth-year pre-medicine student pursuing a bachelor's degree in human nutrition, is the Board of Trustees selection as the university’s outstanding student for September. A Dayton native, she chose Ohio State for its abundant resources and opportunities to pursue her passions of medicine and nutrition. Among the scholarships she has received is the college’s Nancy Reger Broughton Endowed Scholarship.

Barbara volunteers as a research assistant studying the emerging field of nutrigenomics. Her lab focuses on how micronutrients, such as Vitamin A, can change genetic programs leading to obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Barbara’s principal investigator, Ouliana Ziouzenkova, says that she has demonstrated astonishing learning abilities and attention to detail. The 4.0 student is the leading author on a publication that will be submitted to Nature Medicine. She presented her work at two Ohio State research forums and has been invited to a University of Cincinnati forum.

Her focus on research has not limited her engagement in leadership and service. Barbara is a member of Alpha Epsilon Delta, the academic excellence chair for the Sigma Kappa chapter as well as a Panhellenic delegate. She volunteers at the OSU Medical Center and for Community Commitment and spent spring break in New Orleans with Habitat for Humanity.

Barbara hopes to become a family practice physician, especially helping those with weight-related issues.

Go Confidently in your Kappa Delta Letters

Click here to shop the Kappa Delta Boutique!

RENEW, RENEW, RENEW--Wouldn't you rather have your money go to Kappa Delta?

The 2009-2010 magazine campaign has launched and chapters and alumnae chapters are now selling magazines to assist the Chapter House Fund that supports chapter housing.

Renewals of existing subscriptions is one of the best ways to support the Magazine Agency and it doesn't cost you any more--it is money you are already spending. Why not have half of it go to support Kappa Delta?

QSP has created a SHORT 3-minute video showing exactly how easy it is to order magazines online. Click here to view the video.

Don't believe it? Listen to what the magazine chair from the top-selling alumnae chapter has to say about the system:

From the Magazine Chair to those ordering magazines, the program is flawless. My alumnae group was so successful last year because we learned that almost every member who sent out at least ten emails sold a magazine. Which makes for an extremely easy process because you can send emails and never have to think about it again. People that you least expect buy them too, so it's worth sending emails to all of your contacts.

When I was in college, I hated the paper version of selling magazines. But with this online process, it's so easy. All you have to do is spend 5 minutes online and then you're done because the program will send reminder emails for you. There are even rewards programs within the system like getting a free movie ticket for selling one magazine and rotating prizes each month for the top sellers across the country. One of our members last year worked super hard to win an iPhone and only missed getting it in the final few days.

The turn around for receiving the magazines is great too. It seemed to always be about a month or a month and a half. My mom said the ones she ordered were in her mailbox before she knew it, and I had the same experience. from: Elizabeth Lauten, Gamma Sigma--East Carolina, former Washington, D.C., alumnae chapter magazine chair, current Nation's Capital alumnae chapter president.

Many alumnae are experiencing the same thing that Elizabeth has, that the online system is practically foolproof. Try it out today!!

If you have any questions, please contact Cindy Mize at 901-371-6357 or by e-mail at magazineagency@kappadelta.org.

Beta Rho - San Diego State University Planning 60th Anniversary

Join members of the Beta Rho -San Diego State University chapter as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. The event will take place on October 17, 10 a.m. until 12 noon at the Beta Rho chapter house. Join your sisters for refreshments as members look back on the past 60 years with memorabilia and a slide show. The founding members of the Beta Rho chapter will also be honored. RSVP to Marissa Johnson at marissa.johnson33@hotmail.com.

Please submit pictures to be included in the slideshow to Marissa Johnson at marissa.johnson33@hotmail.com. Kappa Delta memorabilia from throughout the years will be displayed at the event – We would love if you could bring something to contribute and share with your fellow sisters.

Gamma Beta - North Texas Hosting House Dedication and Open House

Join members of the Gamma Beta - North Texas chapter for its house Dedication and open house on October 17 at 3 p.m. National President Beth Martin Langford will be the honored guest. For more information, contact Kerri Morris at gkmorris@sbcglobal.net.

Delta Delta - Troy University Reunion Planned

A Delta Delta - Troy University reunion for pledge classes from 1970-1974 is being planned for October 24, time and place to be announced. Come together for tailgating, football, a house tour and loads of laughter! For more information, contact Melinda Goode at melgoode@comcast.net.

Delta Gamma - Western Kentucky Reunions

A group of alumnae who pledged from 1974-1979 are planning to attend WKU’s Homecoming festivities Nov. 7, 2009, and are looking for Delta Gamma KDs to join in the fun. The chapter hosts an annual alumnae brunch at the house on Saturday morning and a tent for tailgating before the game. A block of rooms is available at the Candlewood Suites for Nov 6 and 7. For hotel reservations, call 270-843-5505. For more information and/or to RSVP for the alumnae brunch, contact Cathy Tench Murdock at cathylee11@gmail.com or Tricia Smith Roca at troca@kemi.com.

A planning committee is in the early stages for reunion festivities for Delta Gamma - Western Kentucky Homecoming 2010! If you pledged from 1993-2003 and are interested in helping us plan for next year, please contact Lauren Brindle Singdahlsen at brindlewku@yahoo.com or Bonnie Holt Logsdon at bonnieholt78@hotmail.com. This will be an every five year event during Homecoming weekend at WKU. More information in coming months as the 2010 Homecoming date is TBA.

Save the Date! Texas State Day Being Planned

SAVE THE DATE! - TheTexas State Day 2010 will be held on March 6, 2010 at the Gateway Center at University of North Texas. More details to follow in the coming months! For information, contact Patti Roberts Smith at prsmith@live.com.

Sigma Epsilon - Texas Planning 30th Anniversary Celebration

Sigma Epsilon - Texas is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its recolonization June 11-13, 2010 in Austin. All collegians and alumnae of the chapter are encouraged to attend. We are also looking for all of the fabulous Texas alumnae of other Kappa Delta chapters who helped to make the recolonization happen back in the summer of 1980. Please contact Carol Stancil Edwards (SE'84) at csered@sbcglobal.net to join the planning committee, to help coordinate your pledge class, or if you were involved in the recolonization or have supported Sigma Epsilon over the past 30 years. We want to honor you and celebrate this chapter with you! Look for more information to follow soon!

Epsilon Eta - Illinois State Planning Reunion

Join members of the Epsilon Eta - Illinois State University chapter as they have a reunion on September 19 at 10 a.m. at the Fairview Park Pavilion in Normal, Ill. The pavilion has been reserved from 10 am - 2 pm but there is talk of touring the campus, having gondolas at Avanti's & stopping by Pub II. The possibilities are endless! For more information, contact Annette May at ajmay1111@comcast.net.

NATIONWIDE - Events and opportunities are now being posted for October, November and December. Send your information directly to Kappa Delta by the 15th of each month for inclusion in the KD Connect.

ALABAMA

ALABAMA - Join the Delta Sigma - University of South Alabama chapter for its 2009 Shamrock Event. The chapter will start off the weekend with a Pancake Dinner on Friday, October 23. There will be a 5K Run on the morning of Saturday, October 24, followed by a Bingo Tournament later that day. Time and places for these events will be announced later. Please contact Christina Smart at cas607@jaguar1.usouthal.edu for more information.

ARKANSAS

ARKANSAS - Join the Central Arkansas alumnae chapter along with the new members of Eta Sigma colony (UALR) for a Founder's Day celebration on October 23, time and place TBA. For more information, contact Rachel at centralarkansaskd@hotmail.com.

ARKANSAS - Join the Central Arkansas alumnae chapter on November 16, time and place to be announced as members assemble Christmas gifts for the women and children at the local Women's Shelter. For more information, contact Rachel at centralarkansaskd@hotmail.com.

CALIFORNIA

CALIFORNIA - Join members of the Beta Rho -San Diego State University chapter as it celebrates its 60th year anniversary. The event will take place on October 17, 10 a.m. until 12 noon at the Beta Rho chapter house. Join your sisters for refreshments as members look back on the past 60 years with memorabilia and a slide show. The founding members of the Beta Rho chapter will also be honored. RSVP to Marissa Johnson at marissa.johnson33@hotmail.com. Please submit pictures to be included in the slideshow to Marissa Johnson at marissa.johnson33@hotmail.com. Kappa Delta memorabilia from throughout the years will be displayed at the event. We would love for you to bring something to contribute and share with your fellow sisters.

CALIFORNIA - Please join the Newport Harbor, Calif., alumnae chapter for a New Member/Founders' Day Celebration on October 26 at 7 p.m. at the home of Robin Cashion. For more information, contact Debbie at socalquilter0401@cox.net.

FLORIDA

FLORIDA - Join the Jacksonville, Fla., alumnae chapter on October 16 from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. as they celebrate Founder's Day at the University Center on the North Florida campus. For more information, visit www.jaxkdalum.shutterfly.com.

FLORIDA - Join the Southwest Florida alumnae chapter for its Founders' Day event on October 24 at 11:30 a.m. at Brios at the Waterside Shops in Naples. For more information and to RSVP, contact Brenda at b_vanderheyden@hotmail.com.

FLORIDA - Join the Southwest Florida alumnae chapter for its Christmas Tea on December 5, time to be announced at the home of Mary Lee Mann. More details to follow. For more information, contact Brenda at b_vanderheyden@hotmail.com.

FLORIDA - Join the Southwest Florida alumnae chapter for its salad extravaganza on January 9th, time to be announced at the home of Jo Pate. For more information, contact Brenda at b_vanderheyden@hotmail.com.

FLORIDA - Join the Southwest Florida alumnae chapter for its Shamrock Brunch on March 13, time to be announced at the Crossings Clubhouse. More details to follow. For more information, contact Brenda at b_vanderheyden@hotmail.com.

GEORGIA

GEORGIA - Join the Greater Marietta, Ga., alumnae chapter on October 24 at 11:30 a.m. for its Founders' Day celebration at Old Vinings Inn. For more information, contact Sara at SARA_TOMBLIN@homedepot.com.

GEORGIA - Join the Greater Marietta, Ga., alumnae chapter on November 17, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m for its Shamrock - Shop for a Cause event at J. Crew, The Avenue at East Cobb. For more information, contact Sara at SARA_TOMBLIN@homedepot.com.

ILLINOIS

ILLINOIS - Join the Champaign/Urbana, Ill., alumnae chapter on October 25 at 1 p.m. for its planning meeting at the Atlanta Bread Company. For more information, contact Kathy at tinkerbell222@hotmail.com.

ILLINOIS - Join the Chicago Lakeside, Ill., alumnae chapter for Happy Hour on October 8 at 5:30 p.m. at English. For more information, contact kd_lakeside@hotmail.com.

ILLINOIS - Join the Chicago Northwest Suburban, Ill., alumnae chapter on September 19 at 9:30 a.m. for its National Women's Friendship Month event at Chicago Botanical Garden's. For more information, kdcnwsaa@gmail.com.

ILLINOIS - Join the Chicago Northwest Suburban, Ill., alumnae chapter on October 12, time to be announced for its Founders' Day event. More details to follow. For more information, kdcnwsaa@gmail.com.

IOWA

IOWA - You are invited to meet other Kappa Delta alumnae in the SE Iowa area at a casual event being held on October 4, 2009 at 3:00 p.m. at Panera Bread (3720 Broadway St. Quincy, IL 62305-2822; 214-222-0860). This "meet and greet" offers the opportunity to get to know each other, to discuss ideas for moving forward with a new alumnae chapter, and to strengthen our KD sisterhood. To RSVP or for more information, contact Julie at jabkd1@yahoo.com.

Join the Central Iowa alumnae chapter on October 12 at 7 p.m. at Hessen Haus. Join members for dinner at Central Iowa's only authentic German Bier Hall and celebrate the time of year when everyone is German! We will also be celebrating Founders' Day (a bit early) with KD quizzes, fun prizes and sharing the KD sisterhood. For more information, contact Nicole at nscott24@gmail.com.

IOWA - Join the Central Iowa alumnae chapter and the Sigma Sigma - Iowa State chapter for a Homecoming tailgate party on October 17, 3 hours before the game at the KD house. For more information, contact Nicole at nscott24@gmail.com.

KENTUCKY

KENTUCKY - Members of the Delta Gamma - Western Kentucky pledge classes of 1974-1979 are planning to attend WKU’s Homecoming festivities Nov. 7, 2009, and are looking for Delta Gamma KDs to join in the fun. The chapter hosts an annual alumnae brunch at the house on Saturday morning and a tent for tailgating before the game. A block of rooms is available at the Candlewood Suites for Nov 6 and 7. For hotel reservations, call 270-843-5505. For more information and/or to RSVP for the alumnae brunch, contact Cathy Tench Murdock at cathylee11@gmail.com or Tricia Smith Roca at troca@kemi.com.

KENTUCKY - A planning committee is in the early stages for reunion festivities for Delta Gamma - Western Kentucky Homecoming 2010! If you pledged from 1993-2003 and are interested in helping us plan for next year, please contact Lauren Brindle Singdahlsen at brindlewku@yahoo.com or Bonnie Holt Logsdon at bonnieholt78@hotmail.com. This will be an every five year event during Homecoming weekend at WKU. More information in coming months as the 2010 Homecoming date is TBA.

KENTUCKY - Sisters of Delta Omicron - Eastern Kentucky University will have a reunion of the earliest members of the chapter October 9 and 10, 2009. A luncheon will be held at the Arlington Country Club on October 10. A dinner will be held the night before at the Julep Cup in Lexington, Ky. Sisters of classes 68-74 will gather, share and reconnect of experiences and life lessons learned over the last 40 years. A silent auction is being held to benefit the chapter. A memorial service will be held for those sisters whom have passed on. For more information, contact Linda at linda_r41042@yahoo.com.

MARYLAND

MARYLAND - Join Baltimore and Annapolis, Md., area alumnae for a Founders' Day celebration on October 24. The event to be held at an alumna's home in Severn will include a potluck lunch. The collegians from Zeta Mu Chapter at Towson University have been invited to join us. For more information contact Cydny at kdcydny@hotmail.com.

MARYLAND - The Baltimore, Md., alumnae chapter will be celebrating the holiday season with a lunch on December 3. For more information contact Cydny at kdcydny@hotmail.com.

NEW JERSEY

NEW JERSEY - Join the Central New Jersey alumnae chapter on October 24 for a trip to NYC to see the Georgia O'Keeffe: Abstraction at the Whitney Museum of American Art. Plan to meet at 1 p.m. at the museum, 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street. For more information, contact Ann Miller at amillerkd@aol.com or Becky at bmeacham@att.com.

NEW MEXICO

NEW MEXICO - Join the Albuquerque/Santa Fe, N.M., alumnae chapter for a movie night on October 9 at 7 p.m.. Location to be announced. For more information, contact Shannon at bayshan@gmail.com.

NEW MEXICO - Join the Albuquerque/Santa Fe, N.M., alumnae chapter for its Founders' Day celeberation on October 24 at 11 a.m. Members will take a tour of Girls Inc and then enjoy a Founders' Day luncheon. For more information, contact Shannon at bayshan@gmail.com.

NEW YORK

NEW YORK - Join the New York, N.Y., alumnae chapter on October 8 at 7 p.m. at Lucky Strike, for bowling with Tau Kappa Epsilon. For more information, contact Kimberly at kdnyaa@hotmail.com.

NEW YORK - Join the New York, N.Y., alumnae chapter for New York Cares Day on October 17, time to be announced. For more information, contact Nevada Jones at c.nevada.jones@gmail.com.

NEW YORK - Join the New York, N.Y., alumnae chapter for its Founders' Day event on October 25 at 1 p.m. at Lady Mendi’s Tea. For more information, contact Kimberly at kdnyaa@hotmail.com.

OHIO

OHIO - Save the date! The Ohio State Day will be held July 23 - 24, 2010. Guest speaker will be Margaret Holt Duncan, former National Vice President Membership. Watch for more details. For more information, contact Beth at bconeglio@gmail.com.

OHIO - Join the Akron, Ohio, alumnae chapter for its Founders' Day luncheon on October 17 at 11:30 a.m. at Silver Lake Country Club. For more information, contact Beth at bconeglio@gmail.com.

OHIO - Join the Cleveland West, Ohio, alumnae chapter for its Founders' Day event on October 17 at 11 a.m. at The Cleveland Yachting Club. In addition to good food, friendship and the annual Founders Day Ceremony, there will be a guest speaker, Katherine Kohl, from Lakeview Cemetery, presenting Full Circle: Cleveland Women, a look at Cleveland's famous women from the past. Luncheon cost $25. RSVP Gretchen Swasey at (216) 272-3695. For more information, contact Natalie at nalesnik03@mirapoint.jcu.edu.

OHIO - Join the Columbus, Ohio, alumnae chapter on October 23 from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. for its Founders’ Day celebration with an evening of Sheer Bliss, a Wine and Chocolate tasting event at Sheer Bliss in Gahanna, Ohio. Please RSVP to dconway6@columbus.rr.com.

OHIO - Join the Columbus, Ohio, alumnae chapter on November 19, from 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Ferns and Flirtinis, an evening at the Franklin Conservatory. Enjoy cocktails and strolling through the beautiful conservatory. This is your chance to see the new Chihuly works on display. Please RSVP to dconway6@columbus.rr.com.

OHIO - Join the Columbus, Ohio, alumnae chapter on December 5 from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. for a decorating party with the Women of Sigma Kappa chapter and a local Girl Scout troop at the Kappa Delta House at OSU. Please RSVP to dconway6@columbus.rr.com.

OHIO - The Dayton, Ohio, alumnae chapter for its Founders' Day event on October 18 with a brunch at the Dayton Marriott. Members will gather at 11:30. Alumnae and collegians are invited. Cost is $25 for alumnae and $10 for collegians. Please RSVP to Marcia at mbooher1@woh.rr.com.

OKLAHOMA

OKLAHOMA - Join members of the Oklahoma City, Okla., alumnae chapter on October 8 at 6:30 p.m. for Bowling in Bricktown. Meet at the Redpin Bowling Lounge. For more information, contact Susie Tallent at stallent@arvest.com.

OKLAHOMA - Join members of the Oklahoma City, Okla., alumnae chapter on November 12 at 5:30 p.m. for its Thanksgiving philanthropy event at the Regional Food Bank. Members will meet for dinner first at Louie's Grill then caravan to the food bank. Meet at the Redpin Bowling Lounge. For more information, contact Susie Tallent at stallent@arvest.com.

OKLAHOMA - Join members of the Oklahoma City, Okla., alumnae chapter on December 12 at 11 a.m. for shopping and lunch at the Pepporoni Grill at Penn Square Mall. For more information, contact Susie Tallent at stallent@arvest.com.

SOUTH CAROLINA

SOUTH CAROLINA - Join members of the Florence/Palmetto, S.C., alumnae chapter on October 16 at 7:30 p.m. for a wine and cheese social at the home of Chasity and Trey Humphries. For more information, contact Maggie at palmettoaaofkd@hotmail.com.

TENNESSEE

TENNESSEE - Please join the Nashville, Tenn., alumnae chapter Kappa Delta and Friends team as we support the Susan G. Komen Foundation at the Nashville Annual 5K Race for the Cure on October 10 beginning at 8 a.m. in Maryland Farms in Brentwood. To participate and/or volunteer, please contact Team Captain Rachel Raker at rayrayraker@yahoo.com. After the race, please make plans to join us for our Awards Celebration at the Courtyard in Maryland Farms. Kappa Delta National VP of Alumnae, Margaret Watson will be on hand to officially present our alumnae chapter with the Marjorie Knowles Outstanding Alumnae Chapter Award. For more information, contact Tricia at triciathweatt@bellsouth.net.

TENNESSEE - Join the Nashville, Tenn., alumnae chapter for its 4th annual Uniquely Me Self-Esteem Workshop for Nashville area Girl Scouts on November 7, from 1-3 p.m. For more information or to volunteer for this event, please contact Kathleen Goodman at mkgoodman11@yahoo.com .

TENNESSEE - Join the Nashville, Tenn., alumnae chapter for its our biggest event of the year. Our annual Holiday Wine and Cheese and Silent Auction will be held on December 10 beginning at 6 p.m. The event will be held at the Carronbridge House, 200 Waterbury Circle in Franklin. Please visit the "Shamrock Project" link at our website, www.nashvillekdaa.com to view the list of items to be auctioned. Additional information about this event can be found at the "Calendar of Events" section of www.nashvillekdaa.com.

TEXAS

TEXAS - SAVE THE DATE! Texas State Day 2010 will be held on March 6, 2010 at the Gateway Center at University of North Texas. More details to follow in the coming months! For information, contact Patti Roberts Smith at prsmith@live.com.

TEXAS - Join members of the Gamma Beta - North Texas chapter for its House Dedication and Open House on October 17 at 3 p.m. National President Beth Martin Langford will be the honored guest. For more information, contact Kerri Morris at gkmorris@sbcglobal.net.

TEXAS - Sigma Epsilon - University of Texas is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its recolonization July 9-11, 2010 in Austin. All collegians and alumnae of the chapter are encouraged to attend. We are also looking for all of the fabulous Texas alumnae of other Kappa Delta chapters who helped to make the recolonization happen back in the summer of 1980. Please contact Carol Stancil Edwards (SE'84) at csered@sbcglobal.net to join the planning committee, to help coordinate your pledge class, or if you were involved in the recolonization or have supported Sigma Epsilon over the past 30 years. We want to honor you and celebrate this chapter with you! Look for more information to follow soon!

TEXAS - SAVE THE DATE! Gamma Upsilon - Texas A&M-Commerce (formerly East Texas State University) will celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a reunion on May 8, 2010. Lunch will be held in the MSC. More news of the festivities coming soon. For more information, contact Shirley at dramamama6@aol.com.

TEXAS - Join members of the Houston Northwest alumnae chapter on October 27 at 6:30 p.m. for its Founders' Day celebration at the home of Marlene Graham. Celebrate KD’s beginnings and share a fabulous meal with your sisters. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and our sisters and friends who have been affected by breast cancer, please wear something pink. R.S.V.P. by October 20— dinner will be catered by Pit Masters. For more information, contact Monica at monica_droz@hotmail.com.

TEXAS - Join members of the Mid-Cities Texas alumnae chapter on October 22 at 7 p.m. for its annual Founders' Day Dinner at the Olive Garden Restaurant, 301 Hwy. 114 S. Access Rd., Grapevine, Texas. All area Kappa Deltas are invited to attend as we celebrate 112 years of sisterhood! Please call 972/724-0137 for reservation information. And be sure to visit our award-winning website, www.midcitieskd.com For more information, contact Patty at olddogcop@msn.com.

VERMONT

VERMONT - Join Kappa Delta alumnae in the Burlington, Vt., area for a "meet-and-greet" on October 18 at 1 p.m. at at the Dorothy Alling Memorial Library (21 Library Ln, Williston, VT 05495) in the Community Room. Once in the library, follow the long hallway to the back of the building, enter the children's area, and the room is to the left. Amy Levi is the hostess for the event. To RSVP, contact Amy at sweetpea91899@yahoo.com.

VIRGINIA

VIRGINIA - Join the Greater Fairfax/Loudoun County, Va., alumnae chapter on October 24, time to be announced as members celebrate Founder's Day at Lansdowne Resort. For more information, contact Whitney at whitney.richardson@yahoo.com.

WASHINGTON

WASHINGTON - Join Kappa Delta collegians and members of the Seattle Daytime and Evening alumnae chapters as they celebrate the 112th Founder's Day with brunch at the Overlake Golf and Country Club in Medina, WA on October 25. The event begins at 10:30am with a reception to meet our new members. Brunch will be served at 11:00 am. Pre-paid reservations are due October 10. For more information, contact JoAnn at joanofarc98008@msn.com.