the Delta Gamma Blog

Discover London & Paris with Delta Gamma and EF Go Ahead Tours

October 2-9, 2026

Ready to immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of two of Europe's greatest capitals? Join fellow sisters on the exclusive 8‑day London & Paris with Delta Gamma tour, curated by EF Go Ahead Tours and tailored just for the Do Good Sisterhood!

Begin your journey with an overnight flight to London. There, you'll spend three nights exploring iconic sights like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square with an expert tour director and local guides.

After savoring a welcome dinner, cross the English Channel aboard the Eurostar train, and continue your adventure in Paris with idyllic moments beside the Eiffel Tower and leisurely strolls through Place de la Concorde.

Your package includes six nights in thoughtfully selected hotels, daily breakfast, three dinners with beer or wine, private deluxe motor coach transfers and seamless support from departure to return.

Plus, your tour director will ensure smooth logistics, daily context and meaningful camaraderie while empowering you to travel responsibly and respectfully.

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss your chance to connect with sisters, explore legendary landmarks and create lifelong memories across two unforgettable cities. Learn more on our tour webpage. If you prefer to talk, you can call 1-800-438-7672.

Join Us for an Informational Webinar

Wednesday, October 22 at 5 p.m. PT | 8 p.m. ET

Register to attend an informational session hosted by EF Tours to learn all about this DG trip! Dive deeper into the itinerary, learn about the logistics and get all your questions answered. Click here to register.

the Delta Gamma Blog

Doing Good in Miami: DGs Partner with Lighthouse for the Blind

Collegiate Development Consultants Brooke Tellinger, Phi-Colorado, and Kara Graham, Beta Kappa-Kansas, recently visited the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired along with a member of Beta Tau-Miami (Florida)! The Lighthouse supports people of all ages with a focus on music and art education. The Lighthouse has recently started a soccer program for students to participate in as they prepare to help raise awareness prior to the 2028 Paralympics in LA. The sport uses adapted rules and noise-making balls to foster outdoor activity and social skill development.

The CDCs are excited to help re-establish the partnership between Beta Tau chapter and the Miami Lighthouse this upcoming year! DG members will participate in service hours to create crafts that the students at the Lighthouse can utilize such as DIY ABC Braille flip-books, tactile tote bags that students can take home with them and tactile puffy paint coloring pages. Members will also be volunteering directly at the Miami Lighthouse by playing games and assisting with the lunch service for the elderly individuals. This October, Miami Lighthouse will celebrate White Cane Day with a community walk down their street and fun festivities afterward. Beta Tau members are excited to be part of it!

"I feel truly grateful for the chance to work closely with both Beta Tau and the Miami Lighthouse. Seeing the positive impact Delta Gamma efforts have on organizations that share our values of doing good right here in the Miami community is inspiring. Even the smallest contributions, whether time, funding, or direct support, collectively make a powerful difference!"

CDC Brooke Tellinger, Phi-Colorado

Learn more about Delta Gamma's philanthropic efforts and Service for Sight on our website, and follow along with the CDCs on Instagram.

the Delta Gamma Blog

Meet the Belonging Advisory Committee

Introducing the newly appointed Belonging Advisory Committee (BAC) members! This advisory body will continue to uplift Delta Gamma’s commitment to belonging, equity, inclusion and diversity, working to ensure our organization becomes more equitable, inclusive and representative—fostering a deeper sense of belonging. The BAC is chaired by Fraternity Director: Belonging Wynde Jones, Delta Pi-Southern Mississippi. This team will provide feedback, share insights and offer recommendations related to policy, programming and operations to Delta Gamma Leadership and staff. Members of this group, both Delta Gamma members and non-members, are selected based on their professional expertise, volunteer service and/or lived experiences. Learn more about our newly appointed committee members:  

Cayley Ginn, Zeta Sigma-Northern Kentucky (she/her)

Cayley Ginn is celebrating ten years of Delta Gamma membership and is currently in her fifth year advising collegiate members. Professionally, she serves as an academic advisor for adult learners and transfer students in higher education. In her free time, she enjoys baking and spending time with her husband and their dog, Atlas. Cayley is excited to join the Belonging Advisory Committee and is committed to helping move the future of Delta Gamma forward.  

Clare Lo, Alpha Phi-British Columbia (she/her)  

Clare Lo is a rising sophomore at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, with academic interests in public health, management and nutrition. She currently works on a global health team at a hospital, supporting research on women's reproductive health. Originally from Hong Kong, Clare's move to Canada inspired her passion for belonging and inclusion. She has held various leadership roles, including House Captain and Student Ambassador. Outside of academics, Clare enjoys baking and vlogging for fun. 

Helen Diamond Steele, Delta Zeta Sorority (she/her) 

Dr. Helen Diamond Steele is the executive director of Strategy and Campus Partnerships at Clemson University. She holds a PhD in Educational Leadership and brings over 20 years of experience in higher education. Helen specializes in student affairs, inclusive excellence, and strategic leadership. A member of Delta Zeta, she is honored to serve Delta Gamma and support its mission. Helen is a qualified facilitator and educator in intercultural development and global competence. She volunteers as a Merit Badge Counselor for Scouts BSA and serves on the Winthrop University Alumni Executive Board. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, yoga and cheering on the Clemson Tigers. 

Mary Papillion, Eta Alpha-Pepperdine (she/her)   

Mary Papillion is a senior at Pepperdine University double-majoring in Political Science and Sociology with a pre-law focus. Within the Eta Alpha chapter of Delta Gamma, she has served in several leadership roles, including director of social awareness, Honor Board member and vp: social standards. This fall, she will work as a faculty and research assistant at Pepperdine Caruso Law School’s Straus Center for Dispute Resolution. Mary is passionate about women’s safety, education quality and support systems. She also works as the marketing and e-commerce coordinator at Shop Abierto. In her free time, she enjoys reading, weightlifting, yoga and building community. 

Elizabeth Mundt, Alpha Omega-Arkansas (she/her) 

Elizabeth Mundt currently works as a Panhellenic support specialist for the National Panhellenic Conference, supporting over 240 College Panhellenics and 150 Alumnae groups. Originally from North Texas, she previously served as the Greek life coordinator at the University of Nebraska–Omaha. She holds a Bachelor's in Mathematics and a Master’s in Multicultural Women’s and Gender Studies. Elizabeth joined Delta Gamma as a re-establishing member at the Alpha Omega chapter. Her DG service includes numerous advisory and leadership roles, including Honor Board adviser, facilitator and Alumnae Advisory Board member. Outside Delta Gamma, she has also served as a chapter adviser for Beta Theta Pi. She now resides in Indianapolis and continues to support fraternity/sorority life professionally and personally. 

Athena Cole, Theta Alpha-Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo (she/her)  

Athena Cole is a founding member of the Theta Alpha chapter at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and an active member of the San Diego alumnae chapter. She serves as Regional Collegiate Specialist for Region 7 and a facilitator for Delta Gamma’s Health & Well-Being Series. Athena has served as a Collegiate Development Consultant, advisory team chair, and Foundation Fundraising Champion. She works as a lecturer at San Diego State University and plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Communication. Her research focuses on DEI policy frameworks and the implications of DEI bans in the U.S. Outside of work and DG, Athena enjoys traveling, attending concerts, reading and soaking in the San Diego sun. 

Ryan Upshaw, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (he/him) 

Ryan Upshaw is assistant dean for student life at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi, where he oversees student engagement and belonging initiatives. He chairs the President’s Task Force on Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging and is part of the TRHT Leadership Team. Ryan holds degrees in psychology and higher education, including a doctorate from the University of Mississippi. He has been recognized as Collegiate Chapter Advisor of the Year by Phi Beta Sigma and named Mississippi’s Volunteer of the Year in 2024. His community involvement includes service on the boards of Capital City Pride, Mississippi Food Network and Big House Books. Ryan is also a seasoned leadership facilitator and Friend of the Anchor for Delta Gamma. 

Ellen FitzGerald, Theta-Indiana (she/her)   

Ellen Barlow FitzGerald is a corporate communications and public affairs professional with over a decade of experience supporting global brands and advancing DEI efforts. An initiate of the Theta chapter at Indiana University, she currently serves Delta Gamma as Council Appointed Coordinator for Theta Gamma-UNC Wilmington. Her DG service includes roles as Regional Collegiate Recruitment Specialist, Regional Foundation Coordinator, Council Appointed Coordinator and ASTP facilitator. She also interned at EO during the inaugural Lewis Institute. Ellen holds a B.S. in Ballet and an M.S.Ed. in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Indiana University. Outside of DG, she co-founded Moms for Indiana, is a Sustainer in the Junior League of Indianapolis, and lives with her husband, son, and dog in Indianapolis. She enjoys gardening, reading romance novels and writing for her Substack, Choreographed Chaos. 

Learn more about Delta Gamma's belonging efforts on our website.

the Delta Gamma Blog

Apply to Serve on the Communications Committees

Applications for the 2025–27 Communications Committees are now open! Comprised of two teams, the Alumnae Communications Committee and the Collegiate Communications Committee, these volunteer groups help elevate Delta Gamma’s voice through strategic storytelling, marketing and communications resource development and direct collegiate chapter and alumnae group support.

Committee members collaborate with Fraternity staff and Leadership to highlight member achievements, promote signature initiatives and provide valuable tools to alumnae and collegiate communications officers. From developing toolkits and templates to managing campaigns and initiatives like Member of Impact, members play a key role in strengthening our brand and engaging our sisterhood.

We’re seeking applicants with a range of experiences! Whether you have professional skills in marketing, writing, design, or social media, or a deep understanding of Delta Gamma’s structure and member experience, we hope to see you apply! We’re building a collaborative team with diverse perspectives and complementary strengths.

Members should be prepared to commit four to six hours monthly and participate in monthly virtual meetings. A two-year term begins in 2025. Applications are due Monday, September 15.

If you’re passionate about Delta Gamma and eager to make a lasting impact through meaningful communication, we encourage you to apply!

Committees Overview and Purpose

The Delta Gamma Communications Committees are composed of two volunteer teams, the Alumnae Communications Committee and the Collegiate Communications Committee, that serve to elevate and amplify the voice of Delta Gamma through strategic storytelling, support, and resource development.

These committees will support alumnae and collegiate leaders in executing communication plans, creating helpful tools for communications officers, promoting impactful stories, and ensuring alignment with the Fraternity’s broader communications strategy. Members will collaborate with Fraternity leadership and staff to ensure Delta Gamma members and their achievements are celebrated, shared, and supported across multiple platforms and channels.

Committee Specific Objectives

Alumnae Communications Committee
The Alumnae Communications Committee focuses on enhancing communication across alumnae groups and platforms. Members will:

  • Support the alumnae communications officers in developing and executing marketing and communication strategies.
  • Create templates, resources, and trainings for alumnae communications officers.
  • Highlight alumnae stories and events across Delta Gamma platforms.
    Manage content for key initiatives like Member of Impact, She’s the Pro, and In Memoriam.
  • Contribute to campaigns including per capita dues, Loyally Anchored, and Volunteer Appreciation.
  • Coordinate all aspects of DG Live!, including content development and speaker logistics.
  • Develop resources for Founders Day, Alumnae Initiate and other  programming initiatives.
  • Promote alumnae award opportunities and elevate group achievements.
  • Serve as a communications liaison between alumnae chapters and Fraternity. 

Collegiate Communications Committee
The Collegiate Communications Committee provides vital support to collegiate communications officers and helps enhance chapter visibility and storytelling. Members will:

  • Support the vp: communications and respective directors with resources, document updates, and training, including contributions to The Pursuit course and CCOM updates.
  • Create toolkits and templates to guide chapter communications strategies.
    Highlight chapter stories in Delta Gamma communications platforms.
  • Partner with the Director: Awards to increase awareness of collegiate award opportunities.
  • Provide strategies to help chapters promote their programs, events, and achievements.
  • Serve as a communication liaison between collegiate chapters and Fraternity leadership.
  • Provide support and help develop training for the collegiate communications adviser role.

Ideal Qualifications

Ideal candidates bring a range of strengths to the team. You may have professional experience in one or more areas of communications such as strategy, content creation, copywriting, editing, design, social media, branding, media relations, UX/accessibility, web and email marketing, data analysis, or market research. Or, you may bring strong Delta Gamma knowledge, including familiarity with Fraternity structure, officer roles, and member experiences (collegiate and/or alumnae), with experience in alumnae group or collegiate chapter-level communications, marketing, or content development.

You do not need both. We are intentionally building a diverse and collaborative committee with members who complement one another’s skills and perspectives. 

Candidates with a strong understanding of Delta Gamma’s values and a commitment to advancing the Fraternity’s strategic priorities through effective marketing and communication practices are especially encouraged to apply.

Experience with tools such as Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft 365, Google Suite, or social media platforms is preferred, but not required.

Expectations & Commitment

Committee members should expect to:

  • Commit to a two-year term (2025–27), demonstrating sustained engagement and reliability over the duration of service.
  • Participate fully in regular monthly virtual meetings, contributing actively and thoughtfully to discussions and decision-making.
  • Dedicate an average of 4–6 hours per month to committee responsibilities, managing time effectively to balance Delta Gamma service with other commitments. 
  • Exhibit a positive, solution-oriented mindset and embrace a spirit of collaboration, teamwork, and cooperation across generations. 
    Uphold high personal and professional standards, including clear communication, timely follow-through, and attention to detail.
  • Show passion and dedication for Delta Gamma’s mission, communications goals and commitment to member engagement across both alumnae and collegiate audiences.

the Delta Gamma Blog

Marketing & Communications Team Honored at FCA Conference

In May, the Fraternity marketing and communications team attended the Fraternity Communication Association (FCA) Annual Conference in Denver, Colorado, in conjunction with the Fraternity Executive Association (FEA) Annual Conference. During the conference, staff members had the opportunity to attend educational programming, roundtable discussions, networking events and the awards banquet at the conclusion of the week.

Delta Gamma was awarded six marketing and communications awards during the FCA Awards Banquet! 

First Place | Magazine Story Packaging

Maintaining Humanity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence | Spring 2024 ANCHORA

First Place | Magazine Feature Writing (1,000+ words)

Knock, Knock… Anyone Home? | Fall 2024 ANCHORA

First Place | Critics’ Choice – Magazine Single Page Design

Let’s Flamingle | Winter 2024 ANCHORA

Second Place | Magazine Feature Design 

Unfiltered and Unstoppable | Winter 2024 ANCHORA

Second Place | Magazine Feature Writing (up to 1,000 words)

Spreading Sunshine | Winter 2024 ANCHORA

Second Place | Event Branding

Convention 2024

Pictured, left to right: Director of Marketing and Communications Mallory Borino, Assistant Director for Marketing Morgan Branson, Alpha Xi-West Virginia, Assistant Director for Communications Caitlin Soltesz, ANCHORA Editor Jayme Crowell, Alpha Pi-Arizona, Social Media Specialist Abby Hanlon at Meow Wolf in Denver, Colorado.

the Delta Gamma Blog

Honoring Juneteenth: A Day of Reflection, Freedom and Commitment to Our Values

Each year on June 19, the United States recognizes Juneteenth, a historic and deeply significant day that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans in the US.

On this day in 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free. Juneteenth reminds us that freedom, justice and equality have not always been experienced equally, and that progress often comes through persistent courage and collective action.

As members of Delta Gamma, we are called to lead lives of purpose, sisterhood and personal responsibility. This includes understanding the past, acknowledging the experiences of our members and contributing to a more inclusive and equitable world. We honor this day not only in remembrance of what has come before, but as an opportunity to recognize and uplift the voices, stories and contributions of Black members across our sisterhood

Why Juneteenth Matters to Delta Gamma

At its core, Juneteenth is about liberation, community and belonging, values that closely align with Delta Gamma’s commitment to creating spaces where every member feels seen, valued and supported. Through our belonging, equity, inclusion and diversity (BEID) efforts, we are actively working to ensure that our sisterhood reflects the diversity of the world around us and that each member has the opportunity to belong.

Delta Gamma’s legacy is enriched by members who advocate for justice, build inclusive chapters and ensure that we live Article II.

Uplifting the Voices Within Our Sisterhood

On this day, we intentionally recognize the strength, resilience and contributions of Black members throughout Delta Gamma’s history. It also serves as a reminder to continue creating space for all members to be fully seen, heard and celebrated -- not just today, but every day.

How We Can Honor This Day Together

  • Learn: Take time to explore the history of Juneteenth and its ongoing relevance. Share what you learn with your sisters and engage in meaningful dialogue.
  • Reflect: Acknowledge the experiences of Black members and consider how your chapter or group can continue fostering a culture of belonging.
  • Act: Use your leadership and influence to challenge injustice, support inclusive practices and affirm the worth of every member.
  • Celebrate: Recognize and celebrate the achievements of Black members within your chapter, alumnae group or community.

Delta Gamma Fraternity is committed to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment through experiences that foster belonging with care and connection, aligning with our values outlined in Article II. We believe cultivating a culture of belonging, equity, inclusion and diversity (BEID) allows members, future members and friends of the anchor to be seen and heard for their authentic whole selves without a need to suppress aspects of who they are and their lived experiences. Review our positional statement and resources here.

As we observe Juneteenth, may we recommit living with integrity, embracing one another’s stories and moving forward with purpose. Together, we can build a Delta Gamma that not only remembers history but helps write a more just and inclusive future.

the Delta Gamma Blog

2025 UIFI Scholarship Recipients

We are excited to announce the collegiate members who have been awarded full-ride scholarships to attend the Association of Fraternal Leadership and Values (AFLV) Undergraduate Interfraternity Institute (UIFI) this summer! Congratulations to Chloe Engle, Delta Kappa-South Florida, Gabrielle Stanley, Eta Beta-Hartford and Evita Wolcott, Epsilon Sigma-San Diego State, who have been awarded scholarships to represent Delta Gamma.

UIFI is a four-day, three-night, immersive leadership experience where fraternity/sorority students come together to discover new solutions to critical problems, learn from and share experiences with other fraternity and sorority students and identify the conversations they want to start in their own communities.

We are excited for these dedicated members to represent Delta Gamma at this leadership event!

the Delta Gamma Blog

Celebrating Women's History Month | Susan Nattrass, Beta Beta-Alberta

By Archivist/Historian Diane Hall, Eta Upsilon-Drexel

During Women's History Month, we celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of extraordinary women who have left a lasting impact on society. Among these barrier-breakers are the Notable Delta Gammas, who have advanced our mission of doing good and left lasting legacies in various fields, from business and politics to arts and philanthropy. This month serves as a reminder to honor their achievements, inspire future generations, and reflect on the collective power of women who continue to shape our world.

The first modern international Olympic Games were held in the summer of 1896. The original values of the games were expressed in the Olympic Charter: encouraging effort, preserving human dignity and developing harmony. Over time, these values evolved, and today, they include celebrating friendship, demonstrating respect and striving for excellence. These ideals can be seen in Susan Nattrass, Beta Beta Alberta.

To understand what Susan accomplished, you first must understand how hard women had to fight to be equally included in the Olympics. 1900 was the first year female athletes were allowed to participate (incidentally, it was also the first year Canadian athletes participated). The events female athletes were allowed to compete in were limited. It would not be until 2012 that women were permitted to compete in all Olympic sports.

Susan helped show the world that women deserved the same opportunities in the games as male athletes. Born in 1950, she was introduced to the sport of trap shooting by her father. While her father would take her shooting with him from the age of five, he did not teach her how to shoot until the age of 12. Trap shooting involves clay pigeons being launched at a high rate of speed, mimicking a bird’s path, and the shooter attempting to hit as many as possible. Typically, five pigeons will be launched during a round.

As her skill grew, she began competing internationally in 1969. Just a year later, she was initiated into Delta Gamma. As her international reputation in trap shooting increased, Susan also developed her mind. She made the Dean’s list her sophomore, junior and senior years, then earned an M.A. in physical education and went on to teach at multiple universities.

Then, in 1976, with the Olympics being held in Montreal, she became the first woman in history to compete in the Olympics in trap shooting. This would not be her last appearance at the Olympics. As of 2012, she was among only 122 athletes to compete at six or more Olympic Games. Besides being an Olympian, Susan is also a seven-time Women’s World Trapshooting Champion, four-time Silver Medalist at World Championships and two-time Silver and three-time Bronze medalist at Commonwealth Games.

In 1977, Susan was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, and in 1981, she was named Canada’s best athlete, male or female, amateur or professional, receiving the Lou Marsh Trophy (now called the Northern Star Award).

In 1987, she completed her Doctorate in Physical Education and Sport Sciences at the University of Alberta. In 1996, she joined the Pacific Medical Center, where she worked as a medical researcher in osteoporosis. In 2007, she became the director of research, and she remained there until 2013. Today, she owns and operates the Puget Sound Osteoporosis Center, where she continues her medical research.

Is there a Delta Gamma you think should be included on our Notable Delta Gamma’s list? Submit their name for consideration by filling out this form.

the Delta Gamma Blog

Celebrating Women's History Month | Cynt Smith Marshall, Gamma-UC Berkeley

By Archivist/Historian Diane Hall, Eta Upsilon-Drexel

During Women's History Month, we celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of extraordinary women who have left a lasting impact on society. Among these barrier-breakers are the Notable Delta Gammas, who have advanced our mission of doing good and left lasting legacies in various fields, from business and politics to arts and philanthropy. This month serves as a reminder to honor their achievements, inspire future generations, and reflect on the collective power of women who continue to shape our world.

Delta Gamma’s motto, do good, calls for Delta Gammas to improve the world. Embodying this ideal is Cynthia “Cynt” Smith Marshall, Gamma-UC Berkeley, who has helped organizations address issues of discrimination, harassment, diversity and inclusion.

In 2018, the Dallas Mavericks were facing very serious problems around misogyny and sexual harassment within the organization. These issues had been going on for decades, and the team’s owner, entrepreneur and Shark Tank host, Mark Cuban, knew they had to be addressed. So, he made a call to Cynt. The two had never met or spoken before, and Cynt had never even heard of him. However, Cynt had cultivated a reputation for making meaningful changes at large organizations, and Mark wanted to do just that with the Dallas Mavericks.

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, her family relocated to California when Cynt was an infant. After facing physical abuse by her father, her mother took Cynt and her siblings and left. Cynt mother put high value on education. According to Cynt, “My mother put a math book on one hand and the Bible in the other.” Her strong work ethic and academic aptitude lead to her receiving a full scholarship to the University of California, Berkely where she studied business administration and human resources management. She also became the university’s first Black cheerleader.

After college Cynt worked as a local supervisor for AT&T and began climbing up the corporate ladder. Despite her success, Cynt felt she had to suppress parts of herself at work. She avoided wearing bright colors in her work clothing, styling her hair in braids or talking too loudly. Even her preferred name, Cynt, was challenged by upper management and often not used by her colleagues.

After becoming president of AT&T North Carolina, Cynt decided she would no longer suppress her authentic self at work. In 2015, she was promoted to senior vice president of human resources and chief diversity officer. Thanks to the strategies she implemented to make AT&T an inclusive workplace, it was named one of Fortune’s 100 Best Places to Work for the first time.

In 2017, she left AT&T to start her own consulting firm. In 2018, she got that phone call from Mark Cuban. She began her work at the Dallas Mavericks by simply listening to the employees and scheduling one-on-one meetings to learn about their lives. She increased the number of women in leadership positions to 50% and people of color to 47%. In December 2024, Cynt retired from her position as CEO but continues to consult for the organization. Read more about Cynt in the ANCHORA.

Is there a Delta Gamma you think should be included on our Notable Delta Gamma’s list? Submit their name for consideration by filling out this form.

the Delta Gamma Blog

Celebrating Women's History Month | Jackie Martin, Rho-Syracuse

By Archivist/Historian Diane Hall, Eta Upsilon-Drexel

During Women's History Month, we celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of extraordinary women who have left a lasting impact on society. Among these barrier-breakers are the Notable Delta Gammas, who have advanced our mission of doing good and left lasting legacies in various fields, from business and politics to arts and philanthropy. This month serves as a reminder to honor their achievements, inspire future generations, and reflect on the collective power of women who continue to shape our world.

Cecilia Barber Martin was born in Braddock, Pennsylvania, in 1903. It is unknown how she acquired the nickname Jackie, but it became the name most people know her by. By the time she was seven, the family had relocated to Washington, D.C. From an early age, she was breaking barriers. One story goes that she convinced the administration of her elementary school to let her be the first female student to take an industrial arts class. The school acquiesced, but only because she would also take a home economics class.

After graduating from high school in 1921, she worked for a year to save money for school. In 1922, she was accepted into Syracuse University on a sports scholarship and chose pre-law as her major. And she pledged Delta Gamma! Unfortunately, her scholarship did not cover all her expenses. Even though she worked multiple jobs, she was unable to make enough money to continue at the university for more than a year.

Jackie had excelled in basketball, track and rifle. This helped her land her first job after she left school when she joined the Washington Times as the women’s sports editor. This made her the first woman to be hired as a sports editor for a major metropolitan daily newspaper. She also worked as the society editor for Underwood & Underwood Photo News Service, where she began to learn about professional photography. Over the next several years, she worked at several newspapers, coached a girls’ basketball team, trained for the half-mile at the Olympics (she was injured at tryouts) and joined the Newspaper Women’s Club.

In 1933, Ruth Bryan Owen, Kappa Nebraska, was appointed as the first female chief of mission as head of the U.S. embassy for Denmark and Iceland. Jackie traveled with her to Copenhagen as an unofficial press attaché. Her career was taken to new heights with the outbreak of World War II and the formation of the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps. Jackie was the WAAC’s first official photographer and public relations officer. In 1944 she traveled to Italy as a war correspondent, taking over 4,000 photographs of the war. After the war, she became chief of the photo operation for the Marshall Plan. The Marshall Plan was the United States initiative to aid the economic recovery of Western Europe.

Throughout the 1960s, she was heavily involved with Delta Gamma, serving as a public relations consultant. For the 1964 Convention, she created an extensive exhibit titled This is Delta Gamma. She received many awards in her lifetime, including the George Arents Medal, a War Department Certificate of Merit and, in 1962, the Order of the Delta Gamma Rose.

Is there a Delta Gamma you think should be included on our Notable Delta Gamma’s list? Submit their name for consideration by filling out this form.

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