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Pride for my child & my sisterhood

By Jessica Hammond-Brouwer, Beta Pi-Willamette

Because this is Ashley’s story, we collaborated on it and I asked her if she wanted to share anything with my Delta Gamma community and she said that “she is not afraid to speak up and tell people that she is trans and other people should not be afraid.” 

“Hello, I’m Jessica. I am a 1999 initiate of Beta Pi-Willamette, I live in Region 7 and I have three daughters.” 

This is a typical introduction of mine at Delta Gamma events. However, four years ago, I would have said that I had two daughters and a son - this was before my youngest could verbalize that she was transfeminine. For those not familiar with this term, transfeminine describes people who were assigned male at birth, but identify more with femininity. At birth, Ashley was assigned as a male based on her genitalia, but this never felt right to her. 

There were a lot of precursors to Ashley’s declaration that she was a girl. She was ridiculed in preschool for having “girl shoes” when she wore her favorite sparkly pair of sneakers. She felt visibly uncomfortable in "boy" clothes and, instead, would choose to wear pajamas. She was traumatized by haircuts - which, we later learned, was because they made her "look like a boy." All of these experiences manifested into an anxiety diagnosis, which vanished after her transition. At 5-years-old, she asked to have us, and others, use she/her pronouns and then, soon thereafter, chose a new name that was more visibly feminine. Luckily, we live in a state where she was able to get her birth certificate corrected. Luckily, we have family and friends and medical providers who have supported our daughter through her journey. Luckily, she has an amazing school community where she has not experienced any bullying. And, luckily, I have had Delta Gamma as a support through the years as well. 

I didn’t think that I would join a sorority when I went to college or that I would have a transfeminine daughter, but it seems fitting that these two things continue to intersect. As for Delta Gamma, I have been fortunate to serve many volunteer roles for the Fraternity, including Regional Director, Regional Collegiate Specialist and Advisory Team Chair in multiple regions. Through these roles, I have been able to witness Delta Gamma's collective sisterhood while seeing the organization still embracing members' individual stories. I have also seen, in action, Delta Gamma’s words of empowering members “to act with intention so that they become an unstoppable force for good.”  

In addition to volunteering for Delta Gamma, in 2018, I also began a local group designed "for parents, family members and/or friends to engage in respectful and inclusive dialogue about issues facing the trans, queer and gender non-conforming youth and children in our lives" - this group has provided education, support and connection for many local families. Additionally, I have had countless DG sisters reach out seeking information for themselves and loved ones. Oftentimes a DG sister will contact me because a friend of theirs, who is not a member of a fraternity or sorority, has questions or wants to speak with someone who has direct experience in parenting a transgender child.

One of the values of our Fraternity is that of having a “true sense of social responsibility.” I think that it is easy to speak of sisterhood and inclusivity in the abstract, but harder for some to execute it in action. For many transgender individuals, fraternities and sororities do not seem like a welcoming option to even consider. And I know that not every transgender person’s sorority experiences have been positive - both in their collegiate chapters and alumnae groups. Greek organizations have a lot of work to do regarding inclusivity across the board. However, I have also seen examples of the sisterhood that Delta Gamma specifically provides to transgender members. I recall stepping into a chapter house and seeing the trans flag proudly hanging in a member's room. I recall multiple chapters that I have worked with wanting to ensure that they were actively supporting their queer and transgender members. I have had sisters reach out asking thoughtful and respectful questions, wanting to educate themselves and increase their acceptance of others. I hope that, regardless of each Delta Gamma member’s level of understanding of transgender issues, that each of us are willing to challenge ourselves to learn more, to advocate for others and to continue exemplifying the values of our Fraternity.

Above photo: Jessica, Travis, Brinsley, Brooklynn and Ashley at the 2018 Delta Gamma Convention in Phoenix, Arizona. 


A few resources for those willing to learn more are included below and I am always willing to speak directly to anyone who wants to reach out. 

The Trevor Project: A Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth

Human Rights Campaign: Transgender Children & Youth: Understanding the Basics

National Center for Transgender Equality

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My Asian-American Family History

By Charlie Kovanda, Zeta Rho-Ohio

Charlie Kovanda, Zeta Rho-Ohio, an alumna initiate and former Delta Gamma Foundation staff member, is currently a mother to a 2-year-old daughter alongside her full-time job as a Vice President in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for JPMorgan Chase & Co. Charlie considers herself a wine and cheese enthusiast and also enjoys running, reading and watching great Netflix shows. During Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, she wants to share her story in hopes to spread awareness, shed light on the needs of the AAPI community and encourage action from AAPI allies and sisters. 


“You aren’t Asian.”

“No wonder you are so smart – you’re Asian.”

“Where are you from?” “No, where are you REALLY from?”

These are just a few of the phrases I’ve heard regarding my Asian-American heritage. Most were well-intentioned and I shrugged them off as harmless – I think a lot of people do that – shrug off micro-aggressions and assume best intent. However, looking at what is happening in the Asian or Pacific Islander community right now, maybe I should have spoken up sooner. Maybe all of us as sisters, need to be more comfortable speaking up when we see or hear this type of behavior.

Now May is Asian Heritage month, and while I would love to celebrate my rich heritage, I can’t do that without also shining the light on some ways we as a sisterhood can come together to support and ally alongside the Asian community.

But first, let me share my family history… My grandma was born in Shanghai in 1917, just seven years after China had asked Britain for help stopping the Opium trade with India. It meant my grandma was born under British control and had dual citizenship. My grandma came from the wealthy class and even bound her feet, a symbol of status and beauty. She was also the second girl born into her family, so she was sent to live in a Catholic Convent.

Years later, she met my grandpa, a Native American man of Hispanic heritage, who happened to be in China during World War II. He looked at her tiny frame and her “too-big-for-life” sassy attitude and fell in love. The rest is… my family history. That history includes their marriage in 1937 and my grandma’s immigration to the U.S. where there was a lot of anti-Asian hatred because of the war. At the time, Japanese and Chinese people were grouped together and often detested.

In 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 – which ordered the removal of resident enemy aliens from parts of the West, vaguely described as military areas. It’s funny how presidents can influence xenophobic hatred of an entire population.

Now we are living in 2021, and I am a proud mixed-race American, who feels called to honor and speak up about my Asian heritage. Here are a few of my thoughts about what’s going on now in our world – these are my thoughts alone and do not represent the entire Asian population:

  1. I often feel my Asian heritage is excluded from discussions around racism – Not always, but often, I feel we as a society speak about racism in terms of Black and Hispanic people and exclude other people of color. Perhaps this is due to the misinformed myth that people of Asian descent are part of the “model minority” meaning people often assume Asian people don’t need as much help because they are doing well enough on their own. The truth is that Asian-Americans have varied experiences as a population – they have the largest wealth gap, with some households making well above average and others living below the poverty line. I sometimes (maybe erroneously), feel as if the Asian community has not been adequately prioritized the same when it comes to diversity and inclusion initiatives. I know it’s not a competition – there are some systemic issues that impact Black and Latinx individuals differently and often more severely – but that doesn’t negate the fact that I sometimes feel like being Asian isn’t “enough” to necessitate energy or attention in this space. Am I alone in this?
  2. Recent attention has felt a little… performative to me – All over my social media channels I see posts and banners and profile frames using #StopAsianHate. And I appreciate that public show of support. I also have been a part of the calls and conversations my company has hosted, and I know those are important platforms to allow for people to articulate and express their feelings so that we can work toward action. I appreciate that our leadership has made it a priority to stop and acknowledge the humanity and hear from our Asian population. However, I am left feeling that none of those actions will produce real or lasting change. I would challenge anyone to review some of the resources linked throughout the article – sign up for free trainings and COMMIT to speaking up when you hear anti-Asian sentiments of any kind. Here is a great article with real examples for how to combat Anti-Asian sentiments.
  3. The onus for fixing the problem often falls on the people who have been impacted – Not always, but often, it seems like when violent occur towards one demographic, we tap leaders of that demographic to share their perspectives, their stories and recommend solutions. While this is my experience, I’ve heard similar thoughts echoed by Black colleagues. Asian voices should be elevated; it makes sense to have Asian employees speak at times like this. But we can’t allow for their voices and stories to represent the entirety of our community. It also forces the emotional burden of “solving” onto people who may be hurting, feel unsafe or not want publicly to express their feelings at all.
  4. Maybe we are not as far removed from racism as we thought – I would love to believe that we have come a long way from 1942 when my grandma faced racial prejudice simply because of her looks. But maybe we have just gotten better at some of the obvious and outrageous racism, and we have allowed for some of the more nuanced attitudes to stay? I do not look at this as a negative, but more as an opportunity to strive for real change and improvement. Maybe staring at our issues transparently, vulnerably, honestly, would set us up to solve for them better?

Now I have a daughter. She looks racially ambiguous, but I see her great grandma in her tiny face. When my daughter smiles and her nose crinkles up, her eyes look like my eyes, looks like my father’s eyes, looks like my grandma’s eyes. I look at her with wonder and worry about what people will think about her or how they will treat her. I hope that she can experience the same love and acceptance from Delta Gamma that I have received. In fact, I hope that this sisterhood is one that will stand alongside her to help her overcome some of the hurdles society might throw her way. I hope she truly gets to experience the bonds of friendship that Delta Gamma offers. I hope that she has a sisterhood that allies around her and advocates for her needs as she grows up. It is for her that I put my thoughts down. It is for her that I write this and urge you to action.

Check out the articles and resources below and don’t be afraid to join in on this conversation.

Resources to help stop Anti-Asian American Hate:

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Samara's Story: Reflecting on My Asian Identity

Meet Samara Morris, Alpha Zeta-Lawrence! She is a senior studying music education and clarinet performance and recently served as her chapter president during the 2020-2021 academic year. This month we are celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, and we are honored to be sharing stories from our members to provide members the opportunity to lean into our value of educational and cultural interests as outlined in Article II. Samara was adopted from China as an infant and she hopes to share this formative experience with other members of the Do Good Sisterhood.

“Do you know your REAL parents?” “You’re so lucky to be here!” “Do you feel connected to your own country?” I was adopted from Wuhan, China when I was 11-months-old. I am extremely fortunate to have been raised by a loving and supportive family, as many may not have that experience. However, in addition to the heaviness that comes with being Asian in America, being an Asian adoptee is completely different. As said in the movie “Crazy Rich Asians,” I’ve been told I’m a banana: yellow on the outside and white on the inside. Recently with Stop Asian Hate, I have struggled with feeling “Asian enough” to be part of the rhetoric. I didn’t grow up in an Asian household, I grew up in a predominantly white community. I don’t speak Mandarin, English is my first language. But people look at me, and there is no doubt that I am Chinese. Because of this, imposter syndrome can be extremely prominent in many adoptees. It feels like the stereotypical "Asian" title is something to be earned rather than something I already have. Even though there have been roughly 80,000 U.S. adoptions from China between 1999-2016, I’ve noticed that the perspective of Asian adoptees is often overlooked. After reflecting on my Asian identity in the last year, this is the most I have felt connected to AAPI Month. Especially after finding more of an adoptee community through Facebook, I am embracing my Asian identity more and more. Although I don't completely know what being Asian means to me, the support of my sisters, friends and family has helped me a lot. I hope that my story serves as an impact to those who have not thought about the Asian-adoptee perspective and for other adoptees to know they are not alone. It is not always easy to find an adoption community, but please know that there are many out there with similar experiences. I believe it is important for all Delta Gammas to celebrate AAPI Month because uplifting our AAPI sisters is a crucial part of Article II. I have received a lot of support from my sisters throughout this past difficult year and I hope that the future of this organization will be strongly rooted in compassion and inclusion.

Learn more about Asian/Asian American adoption and identity here. 

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Behind the scenes of sorority recruitment: Delta Gamma edition 

By Thalia Nieves, Theta Zeta-Florida Gulf Coast

Have you ever wanted to know what goes on behind the scenes of sorority recruitment? Thalia Nieves, Theta Zeta-Florida Gulf Coast, former vp: membership shares her journey planning and executing recruitment for her chapter during truly unprecedented times. 

Sorority recruitment is always an exciting time of the year.

Things took a turn this year when the state of the world became chaotic from what we all know as COVID-19. The rest has been history. However, while the change was new and somewhat intimidating, Delta Gamma embraces change and welcomes it with open arms. Although things were different from normal, that did not stop us from our one goal: allowing potential new members (PNMs) to find their forever home and sisters for a lifetime.

At Florida Gulf Coast University, our Panhellenic team opted for a hybrid version of recruitment. This entailed doing a combination of virtual recruitment, and in-person meetings.

Our main goal before recruitment was to prepare our members on how to handle any and all questions a PNM may have while also engaging in meaningful conversations, and eliminate any hiccups.

We typically spend a week before recruitment to practice conversation on all things recruitment, philanthropy and sisterhood. During the week we not only prepare for PNMs but it is also a week for all current members to build stronger bonds and connections, all things we want to showcase during recruitment! Moving prep week online does make this a bit more challenging as it can be difficult to build connections virtually instead of in-person.

Even so, we wanted to ensure all members had similar interactions and experiences. One way we were able to do this was by including virtual energizers and activities that allowed members to be vulnerable and dig deeper to connect with their sisters. An approach we used was breaking sisters up into smaller groups on Zoom, so they did not feel the pressure to talk in large groups and they were able to connect at a deeper level.

A tip would be to assign someone to make these virtual bump groups for activities and try to pair people who aren't as close  to increase the bond between members. We know being in front of a computer all day can be exhausting so another factor that really increased participation was providing some sort of incentive when  the day was over to boost morale. At the end of each day we would pick three girls who had excellent  participation throughout the meeting to win a Starbucks gift card. We would also end our meetings by doing sister shout outs and acknowledging sisters who were going above and beyond that day!



Florida Gulf Coast's primary recruitment quota was 27 and Theta Zeta pledged 28 new members during fall 2020.

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She's the Pro: Hosting Advice for Your First Post-Pandemic Gathering

By Caryn Ross, Alpha Iota-Oklahoma

Looking back at my college days some 30 odd years ago, I was a sassy-mouthed sophomore at Alpha Iota-Oklahoma looking for a place to belong as a new member. I hadn’t quite found my niche, but I had certainly found the areas I could rule out. Fact was, I hated to bounce. Singing and dancing were not my forte and the whole process challenged me to find where I could contribute and thrive.

Thankfully it seems I had a divine appointment to keep in the kitchen. You see, our cook had quit mid-week and she oversaw the cooking of all the party foods we were serving for an event happening the very next day and finding a caterer at the last minute in Norman, Oklahoma, was not going to happen. So, I raised my hand and told my sisters how I loved to cook, and I had spent years in home economics entering cooking contests, preparing dishes for my friends and family and that they could absolutely trust me to cook for the hundreds of people we were expecting in less than twenty-four hours. I’m still a bit shocked they fell for it, but that event was a hit and my gift of hospitality and a fiery passion for cooking was lit.

Since leaving AI all those years ago my passion for cooking and serving others has withstood the test of time. These days you can find me sharing my recipes, tips and tricks with viewers on CBS News 9 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic I spent my time in the news studio with my coworkers filming cooking specials, but social distancing has made that harder and after a year of hardship I have found that more and more of us are looking for ways to get outside our homes and travel again safely without sacrificing fun. We also want to know how we can socialize with our friends and family but do so responsibly. Lucky for ya’ll, I have that covered in spades.

Post-Pandemic Hosting Tips

  • Gather Outside: Outside gatherings are the safest way to get together sooner rather than later.
  • Think ahead: What holidays or events would you like to host? By doing this one simple step, you allow yourself to plan accordingly. Easter celebrations, showers or Fourth of July will require different arrangements of the furniture, décor and table preparations.
  • Prepare your area: As luck would have it, spring is just around the corner. Dust off the patio chairs and consider giving them a quick spray of paint from the hardware store. This season's hot new color is turquoise, and if you own white metal side tables you can paint and seal with UV protectant clear coat spray in a weekend and you’ll be amazed at the transformation.
  • The fabric store is your friend! Measure your serving surfaces and combine that with the list of events you plan to host and purchase fabrics to cover the tables. Look at Pinterest for ideas on color and patterns and how to layer them for a festive effect. You’ll be amazed at the money you’ll save buying fabric verses traditional tablecloths, and you can easily store them in plastic containers to use again the following year.
  • Shop online marketplaces for décor: The best time to shop for Fourth of July is at the end of winter since no one has even given it a thought yet. You will be shocked at both the selection you can find and the prices. Also, consider purchasing mason jars. They are my go-to for customizable party décor and serving pieces.
  • Consider your Menu: Everyone loves a good spread of food, and this is what will make or break your party.
  • Keep it Simple: I tell people all the time to be sure to enjoy their own party. To ensure this happens keep it extra simple by choosing one entrée, appetizer or dessert and build your entire menu around that choice. For example: If you have a shower for your daughter and she loves lemons consider something as simple as individual lemon cakes in a jar! (Whoever first thought this idea up is a genius because these mini cakes bake quickly and are adorable). You could also offer a create your own lemonade bar where guests add a flavored syrup of their choice and you can serve individual smoked salmon tea sandwiches with a tangy lemon caper aioli (which is nothing more than a fancy-pants sauce made from mayonnaise).
  • Use seasonal produce: Cooking with in-season produce is a sure-fire way to save money and ensure the freshest ingredients in any dishes you serve. The fact is no one enjoys eating hard translucent tomatoes in December. They look and taste better in the summer. If you are having an Easter or Mother's Day gathering, use strawberries. They never taste as sweet as they do in the spring. I promise you'll be happier with the results in your cooking.
  • Work ahead: I always feel terrible for the hostess who is running around trying to cook and entertain at the same time. A week before your party, create a daily list of items to complete to make party day easier. I start by looking at my menu and chopping and slicing everything to be stored and labeled in bags. Prepare all the dips or refrigerated items and store them in their serving dishes covered in the refrigerator up to two days before the party. The day before the party, I set up my serving areas with the platters, bowls, etc. for easy filling the day of the party. I also arrange the flowers and set the table where the guests will be dining. On the day of the party, you’ll be more relaxed thanks to all your pre-planning and all you’ll have to do next is look forward to greeting your guests and settling in to party!

Sassy Tip - Set candles you plan on lighting in the freezer for 20 minutes before lighting. Your candles will burn much slower!

Lemon Layer Cake with Fresh Lemon Curd

1 box yellow cake mix

1 (4.3 ounce) instant lemon pudding mix

1/2 cup vegetable oil

4 large eggs

1/2 cup milk

1 cup sour cream or 2% Greek yogurt

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 8 oz. container Cool Whip

½ teaspoon vanilla

½ cup white chocolate chips

 

Fresh Lemon Curd

4 large egg yolks, room temperature

1/2 cup sugar

3 tablespoons fresh lemon zest

1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

pinch of salt

7 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl mix together the cake mix, lemon pudding mix, vegetable oil and eggs with an electric mixer. Mix together for 2 minutes making sure to scrape the sides. Add in the milk, sour cream, lemon zest and lemon juice. Beat for 1 minute. Pour the batter into the cake pan. Spread evenly and then tap your pan on the counter. This releases any air bubbles and will make for a more even cake. Place into the hot oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a knife comes out clean from the center. Poke the cake all over with a skewer and spoon lemon curd over the top of the warm cake. Cover with plastic wrap and chill overnight.

How to make homemade lemon curd: Pour 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer. In a small/medium sized metal bowl (must be able to fit comfortably over the top of the saucepan thus making a homemade double boiler) whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice and salt. Put the bowl over the simmering water and whisk gently till the mixture thickens up to the consistency of a thick pudding.  (Another way to tell it is done is when lemon curd coats the back of a wooden spoon.) Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the butter piece by piece till the curd is thick and shiny. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on top of the curd. This will keep the curd from forming a skin. Chill for at least 4 hours before using.

To make the frosting: Fold the vanilla into the Cool Whip. Spread the Cool Whip on top of the cake and sprinkle with white chocolate chips.

To make cake in mason jars: Use clean mason jars (you can choose what size). Fill jars ½ way and set on a baking sheet. Bake till skewer comes out clean from the center. Times will vary based on the size of the jar chosen. Proceed with recipe as written. 

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Jan Yanehiro, Gamma Lambda-Cal State, Fresno, is no stranger to breaking barriers. Jan was one of the first female native-born Japanese-American broadcast journalists, she is also an Emmy winner and Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Award recipient, as well as an Academy of Television and Radio Hall of Fame inductee. As the long-time host of the "Evening Magazine" on KPIX TV-CBS5 in San Francisco she shared stories of extraordinary people with her work taking her all over the globe. Jan is currently the Director of the School of Communications and Media Technologies at the Academy of Art University, San Francisco, a role that she has held since 2008. Get to know more about Jan!


Q: Tell us about your journey and how you grew up.

A: I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. I grew up in a very humble family, my father worked as a taxi driver and my mother worked at a bakery in Honolulu. So, the first time I ever left the islands was to attend Fresno State University in Fresno, California. The first time my parents ever left the islands was to attend my college graduation ceremony at Fresno! I may have had humble beginnings, but I had dreams!

Q: While attending Cal State University, Fresno, what inspired you to join a sorority?

A: In the summer of 1967, I was completing my freshman year at the University of Hawaii, working two jobs and planning my great escape to attend college on the mainland, that fall. My father was most displeased that I was leaving the islands.  I think he was simply fearful for me, since we had no friends or relatives in California.  As fate would have it, that summer I met two young “co-eds” (yes, that is what college women were called back then!) who were from Fresno, California. One was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and the other a member of Kappa Alpha Theta.  Both encouraged me to participate in recruitment. I explained to both that I picked Fresno State, as it was in the middle of California and was more cost effective and had a program in journalism. Remember, these were the days before internet searches and social media. So I did rush in September of 1967, and joined Delta Gamma!

Q: What memories stand out most vividly about your DG experience?

A: I remember telling my daughters that we had to wear dresses to dinner at the sorority house—they looked at me in disbelief! Full disclosure, my daughter, Jenna Zimmerman, became a DG at Alpha Nu-USC, and my stepdaughter, Meredith Eves Flynn, became a DG at Eta Alpha-Pepperdine. Truly, I did not pressure them!

And then of course, I tell them about the “Hashers”…and how they served us dinner, and some of my sorority sisters even dated them!

Most of all, I tell them about studying together into the wee hours of the morning and talking about dating and planning first jobs and yes, until the wee hours of the morning. You always had a sister to chat with!

Q: How did Delta Gamma support you in achieving your goals?

A: There is empowerment living with women. Women in college—many with big dreams like mine! Knowing that I was surrounded with some like-minded women empowered me to know my dreams were not silly! I could achieve them. 

Growing up in Hawaii, my dreams were to one day interview the rich and the famous. The celebrities of Hollywood, the movers and shakers of the world – well, I wanted to meet them and I wanted tell their stories.

The good news is, I got to do just that.

Q: Having started your professional career as a flight attendant, how did you decide to make the transition to journalism?

A: I have always been curious—about why someone would want to be an actor/actress/singer, and curious about what inspired someone to start a business and lead a business. I was always curious about what “success” would look like, and feel like. And also curious about disappointments in life, mistakes made and lessons learned. I wanted to tell all these stories.

I did fly as a flight attendant with Trans World Airlines (TWA) right after college. I was based in Chicago and traveled the world for two years, and loved the travel!  Remember, I was an island girl and needed to see the world beyond my own beautiful island paradise.  I loved all the “exotic” cities…from Dayton, Ohio to New York City, from Brisbane, Australia to Paris, France!

But I fell in love with San Francisco. I loved the skyline, the hills, the cable cars and the diverse population. I moved to San Francisco in 1972 and I’m still here!

Q: What excites you most about journalism?

A: We learn best with stories. I feel honored and privileged to tell stories. During my career as a host of a nightly television show on KPIX-CBS 5, called “Evening Magazine,” it’s estimated that I did more than 1,000 stories. From interviewing Julia Roberts in New York to designer Armani in Milan, Italy, to sumo wrestlers in Japan to eating roasted skank (lizard) in the outback of Australia – I had the best job in the world!

Q: What is the most challenging part of working in journalism?

A: If you want predictable hours and set days of work, the field of broadcast journalism is something you would not want to choose. If you want to always delight in learning new cultures, in getting a bit nervous interviewing Kevin Costner, in tackling difficult issues of our times such as AIDS, immigration and race, then choose journalism.

And of course, along the way, I had three children, now 38, 36 and 33 years old, and I am a grandmother too. Yes, we women can have it all—career and family!  You just have to make sure to get a lot of help.

Q: How have the roles of women changed in the field of broadcast journalism since you began your career?

A: Finally, we are seeing women rise up to be news directors, general managers and camera operators!  We need more women in the decision-making rooms of broadcast journalism, but we are not quite there. 

Q: In what ways do you think you have contributed to evolving the broadcast journalism industry?

A: I started on television in 1976 – there were no women who looked like me back then.  I believe in mentoring, in encouraging women and women of color especially, that we MUST be hired, because we will always do the BEST job. Here I am at 73-years-old and I am still mentoring a young investigative reporter here in San Francisco.  She is dynamite and she will go all the way to the top!

Q: Can you share any advice for women hoping to make a career in journalism?

A: Always be curious, always prepare and always believe that you belong. 

Q: What are some of your hobbies or passions outside of your professional career?

A: Today, I am the Founding Director of the School of Communications and Media Technologies at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California. I feel honored to educate the next generation of storytellers. 

I still love to travel. I have visited 58 countries and still have many more on my list!

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For Immediate Release:

Contact: Liz Thompson

Director of Marketing and Communications

(614) 481-8169 | media@deltagamma.org 


COLUMBUS, OHIO – Delta Gamma Fraternity is proud to announce its new partner, Social Responsibility Speaks (SRS), which will aid the organization in developing and implementing strategies for cultivating a more inclusive and equitable membership experience at all levels of the organization, including staff. Founded on the belief that all humans have a social responsibility to care for one another, SRS works toward a more just society and endeavors to educate others to do the same. The individuals who lead SRS have professional experience as staff of higher education institutions, project work with nonprofits and volunteer-governed organizations and existing relationships with Delta Gamma and other National Panhellenic Conference groups. 

 

Prior to the start of this partnership, Delta Gamma had partnered with The Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity in 2019, to conduct a contextualization effort and subsequent organizational equity assessment to review policies, procedures and practices in order to provide the organization’s leaders with recommendations to further advance a culture of care anchored in enhanced inclusivity. The recommendations from the assessment, which will now be implemented by SRS, are designed to remedy barriers, create opportunities for repairing harm and identify needed cultural changes to realize a Delta Gamma where every member feels valued.   

 

Delta Gamma Fraternity President Wilma Johnson Wilbanks, Alpha Psi-Mississippi, shares, “I am honored to work alongside the SRS team as we review the recommendations, engage our members and implement impactful change that will solidify the future of our Do Good Sisterhood. Last month, our Leadership team received the first SRS training experience and we are energized by their profound expertise, commitment to coach and guide, and authentic familiarity with member organizations established to empower women.”

 

In a statement from Social Responsibility Speaks, the Team Leads offered the following: “Our Team is moved by Delta Gamma Fraternity’s commitment to a comprehensive plan for sustainable change within the Fraternity to ensure the Do Good Sisterhood is able to achieve the vision of ‘when nowhere else feels like home, Delta Gamma does’ for every member. We look forward to building on the Kirwan Institute’s recommendations and operationalizing those within the Fraternity.”

 

The partnership between Delta Gamma Fraternity and SRS began in March 2021 and will continue for a minimum of one year as strategic plans are further outlined and the implementation phase begins across Delta Gamma organization wide.

 

About Delta Gamma: Delta Gamma Fraternity was founded in 1873 at the Lewis School in Oxford, Mississippi. The objects of the Fraternity shall be to foster high ideals of friendship among women, to promote their educational and cultural interests, to create in them a true sense of social responsibility and to develop in them the best qualities of character. Today we have more than 263,000 initiated members, 151 collegiate chapters and nearly 200 alumnae groups. Delta Gamma Fraternity Executive Offices is in Columbus, Ohio.

About Social Responsibility Speaks: Social Responsibility Speaks™’ mission is to create a culture of belonging and mattering through a focus on equity, inclusion, and justice. We partner with individuals and organizations to commit to becoming better and stronger in our journey to prevent harm, confront bias, and seek justice. The Social Responsibility Speaks’™ team sees everyone in this space as a leader who must model cultural humility and hold themselves and others accountable to this work.

View a PDF of the press release here. 

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For Immediate Release: 

Contact: Liz Thompson

Director of Marketing and Communications

(614) 481-8169 | media@deltagamma.org


COLUMBUS, OHIO – Delta Gamma is proud to announce the establishment of the new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Advisory Commission, which has been formed to help advise, guide and inform Delta Gamma’s efforts around fostering a greater sense of belonging amongst members who hold marginalized identities, ensuring equitable membership experiences and continuing the organization’s commitment to inclusivity. The 2021 DEI Advisory Commission is composed of 13 accomplished and insightful leaders who are uniquely positioned to assist in the development and growth of Delta Gamma.

“I am deeply grateful for our Advisory Commission members’ willingness and acceptance of such significant responsibilities, as well as their genuine interest anchored in the advancement of Delta Gamma. As trained professionals committed to actionable organizational change, our Advisory Commission members can personally relate to the experiences of our sisters and the contributions of a fraternal membership,” says Fraternity President Wilma Johnson Wilbanks, Alpha Psi-Mississippi. “Our Fraternity Council is dedicated to working alongside these talented volunteers, seeking their guidance and engaging in conversations that will strengthen our sisterhood and our communities as we move forward.”

Members of the Advisory Commission were selected and endorsed by Delta Gamma’s Fraternity Council because of their professional, volunteer or lived experiences. Representing a total of eight different fraternities and sororities, a spectrum of campus community experiences and diverse identities, our Advisory Commission members are subject matter experts committed to the values of Delta Gamma. Many members of the Commission volunteer with other fraternal and community organizations to provide DEI guidance and support. Commission members also offer strong facilitation, consultation and project management skills.

 Information about the members of the DEI Advisory Commission and a Frequently Asked Questions resource are located on our website.

 About Delta Gamma: Delta Gamma Fraternity was founded in 1873 at the Lewis School in Oxford, Mississippi. The objects of the Fraternity shall be to foster high ideals of friendship among women, to promote their educational and cultural interests, to create in them a true sense of social responsibility and to develop in them the best qualities of character. Today we have more than 263,000 initiated members, 151 collegiate chapters and more than 190 alumnae groups. Delta Gamma Fraternity Executive Offices is in Columbus, Ohio.

View a PDF of the release here.

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Redefining the Path: Building Personal and Professional Connections through COB

 

Continuous Open Bidding (COB) is more important than ever this year as health guidelines have changed recruitment activities and regulations resulting in altered opportunities for women to learn about the sororities on their campus. Through this series, we are introducing sisters who found the Delta Gamma sisterhood through the COB experience and have now dedicated their alumnae life to our sisterhood.

 

 

Meet Jess Patterson, Zeta Rho-Ohio, Fraternity Archivist

“I joined Delta Gamma in the fall quarter of my sophomore year.  Had a COB experience not been something that was available to me I would not have joined Fraternity/Sorority life during my time at Ohio University. The “formal” recruitment process (as it was called when I joined) was not appealing to me from the PNM perspective for a few key reasons. I was worried about the time commitment and the conflict it would create with my classes and other activities and I was also worried that the experience wouldn’t allow me to objectively evaluate the organizations on my campus. From my outside perspective looking in – primary recruitment seemed like a rushed and emotionally charged process and to be honest, I was not sure that my return would be worth it if I did join on of the organizations.

My friend Kelli was a member of Delta Gamma and asked me to attend Zeta Rho’s COB event that fall. The events were being held at the chapter house and she described it as an opportunity to meet some great women who she had grown to love, whether I joined or not. Kelli had been a member of DG for almost two years at that point and she told me she was sure I would love DG and that in me she saw a lot of qualities she felt would enrich the chapter. I wasn’t sure if she was just giving me a really good sales pitch or not but regardless, I agreed to meet her at the house for a pumpkin carving event and the rest is history. 

 

Delta Gamma gave me opportunities to grow and develop during my collegiate career that I would have otherwise never had. Ironically, I served two terms as vp: membership overseeing two primary recruitment for my chapter- it was one of my best Delta Gamma experiences. And that growth has extended into my alumnae journey both personally and professionally. Most important for me are the friendships I formed which remain some of my most cherished relationships today. It is all these reasons and many more that I am so thankful for my COB experience.” 

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Five sister-recommended Black creators to follow

We asked for recommendations from Delta Gamma members of Black change-makers, creators, business owners, influencers, artists or leaders they love and believe that other members should know about. We compiled those suggestions throughout the month, and now, as we conclude our celebration of Black History Month, we want to share five sister-recommended Black creators to follow, support and learn more about.


Edmonia Lewis – First professional African American sculptor

Edmonia began creating in 1863; her early sculptors were of well-known abolitionists such as William Lloyd Garrison, Charles Sumner and Wendell Phillips. During her time in Rome, Italy she became known as one of the few sculptors who rarely used Italian workmen to assist on her projects, as she created much of her work without aid. Edmonia ultimately became known for her sculptures showcasing her dual African American and Native American lineage. She was the first sculptor of African American and Native American heritage to gain international recognition. You can find her work today at the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. When it is safe to road trip again, these are some highly recommended pieces to see in person!

Elizabeth Acevedo – Dominican American poet and author

Elizabeth is an award-winning New York Times-bestselling author of The Poet X, a book about a young woman who uses slam poetry to navigate family and personal relationships, and other notable work such as With the Fire on High and Clap When You Land. Her work focuses on the trials and tribulations of young adult life. She currently lives in Washington, D.C. where she continues to write and perform. Next time you are popping into a bookstore or searching for a new audio book, be sure these are on your list.

Instagram – @acevedowrites

Kizzmekia S. Corbett, Ph.D. – Viral immunologist at the National Institutes of Health

Dr. Corbett was one of the lead developers of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine. She is a research fellow and scientific lead for the Coronavirus Vaccines and Immunopathogenesis Team at the National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and Vaccine Research Center. Dr. Corbett has also spent time working on a universal influenza vaccine. We send our thanks for her dedication and passion; she is truly a woman who will go down in history for her efforts!

Instagram – @kizzyphd 

MC Lyte – First female hip-hop artist to release a solo album

MC Lyte is known as one of the pioneers in the hip-hop industry, in part due to her role as the first female hip-hop artist to release a solo album. She was also the first hip-hop artist to perform at Carnegie Hall, as well as the first female hip-hop Artist to have a gold single and a solo Grammy nomination. Notable MC Lyte songs included “Cha Cha Cha” and “I am Woman”. She continues to perform and record, while also being a successful businesswoman in founding her own entertainment management and production firm, called Sunni Gyrl Global.

Instagram – @mclyte 

Misty Copeland – Ballet dancer, First African American woman to be promoted to principal dancer

Misty became the first African American female principal dancer for American Ballet Theatre in 2015. She began dancing at the age of 13 and has earned numerous leading roles in performances such as Birthday Offering, Bach Partita and Thirteen Diversions. Misty has created and choreographed the Spanish Dance in Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker and the Fairy Fleur de farine (Wheat flower) in Ratmansky’s The Sleeping Beauty, along with several others.

Instagram – @mistyonpointe

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