By Ronette Simcox, Pi-Montana
Have you heard of Dawson Institute? It is an incredible program offered to alumnae by the Delta Gamma Foundation through the generous support of Julie Whitney Dawson, Gamma Iota-DePauw.
I was fortunate to attend Dawson Institute in April 2025 with 50 other Delta Gamma alumnae and 12 facilitators (all Delta Gammas). Despite many years of involvement as an alumna, I was nervous, but I knew the experience would be impactful because Delta Gammas know how to put on an event.
I applied to attend Dawson Institute because I was at a bit of a crossroads professionally, I work remotely and crave in-person leadership connections, and I wanted to be in the company of women looking to recharge. The good energy in the room was felt immediately. The diversity in age, professional and personal backgrounds, level of involvement as an alumna, and geography of the attendees made the experience so special because of the variety of perspectives shared. A bit of advice I was given heading into Dawson Institute was to be vulnerable; that vulnerability was met with genuine support, kindness, laughter and new, lasting friendships.
In preparation, all participants completed a strengths assessment. I had not completed this type of assessment in the past and was intrigued by its focus on strengths versus highlighting actions to improve weaknesses. The session dedicated to evaluating our strengths with others was one of the most impactful for me, as were our sessions focused on anchor moments and brave connections. A combination of a relatively low number of overall attendees and the small-group sessions created an intimate environment, making it easy to fully engage.
The bonds of sisterhood in Delta Gamma are strong, regardless of your involvement since college. If you are contemplating whether to attend Dawson Institute, I highly encourage you to apply! You will not regret the time spent in this wonderful program—I predict it will become one of your most treasured Delta Gamma memories.
Applications are now open for our next Dawson Institute session this spring! Dawson Institute will be held March 27-29, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio. All costs associated with attending are covered by the Delta Gamma Foundation for selected applicants.
Apply by January 9, 2026: Click here to apply!
Bio: Ronette Simcox is an initiate of Pi-Montana. She has served in several Leadership roles as an alumna and currently serves as the Regional Foundation Coordinator for Region 7. Ronette has worked in corporate accounting for over 25 years in various organizations. She lives in Bozeman, Montana, with her husband and two sons.