HQ News

July 2008 S.H. Letter

As we approach our summer convention, I want to take a moment to highlight the many accomplishments of the Fraternity and thank our volunteers who have given so significantly to Chi Omega.

First, permit me to tip my hat to members of the Governing Council who have devoted their time and shared their talents with so many others during this past biennium. It has been a true pleasure to serve with these outstanding Chi Omega leaders. We are closer to the Chi Omega vision of being the premier national wome's organization because of this Council's willingness to set goals and launch bold initiatives to meet those goals.

Second, I extend my deep appreciation to members of the Chi Omega Foundation Board for their leadership and dedication. We have seen a tremendous growth in our annual fund during the past two years. This growth reflects the passion and loyalty our members have for Chi Omega. Donor support enhances what we do and augments what we offer.

Chi O Creations has produced many exciting new items over the last two years. The Chi O Creations Board of Trustees has been supportive and innovative in marketing and trademark protection. Many thanks to COC board members for promoting the best image of Chi Omega through merchandise that upholds high standards and quality.

The national volunteers who work on our national teams and committees deserve our thanks and praise. Please join me in thanking these dedicated and loyal Chi Omega Sisters for their efforts.

Here is a snapshot of some team accomplishments:

National Recruitment Team (NRT): Last summer, Chi Omega's National Recruitment Team hosted a Recruitment Rally in Memphis and targeted some of our largest chapters on flagship campuses. This gathering allowed for the opportunity to address common challenges and concerns. The success of the rally resulted in another Recruitment Rally being held in Mid-America in February. Chi Omega is rolling out the ICS recruitment tool that will enable our chapters to better organize data and present information to chapter membership for membership selection.
National House Corporation Team (NHCT): During the biennium, Chi Omega hosted its first National House Corporation Summit for house corporation board volunteers. At the summit, the Governing Council announced the sprinkler initiative whereby Chi Omega owned-facilities must install fire suppression systems by September 2011. Members of the National House Corporation Team should be commended for their efforts to host the summit and prepare the program.
National Advisory Training Team (NATT): This team introduced new ways to train volunteers through two conference calls. During the biennium, the NATT held four conclaves and reached 16 chapters. Another conclave was held in conjunction with the NHCT and reached 8 chapters. Our Advisory Search Team assisted 23 chapters. The Leading the Way Advisory Board resources can be found on the Chi Omega Learning Center, along with chapter leadership on-line resources.
National Panhellenic Conference/Greek affairs: Members of Chi Omega's delegation attended regional Greek conferences and facilitated workshops. National Chi Omega leaders and chapter leaders participated in congressional visits this spring to encourage support of legislative bills affecting Greek housing. Our Congressional Awareness Committee has allowed Chi Omega to be a more visible player in government relations. Make-A-Wish® Committee: This committee has been instrumental in raising almost $4 million for the Make-A-Wish Foundation since the inception of our alliance. We will host a special luncheon at Convention to celebrate our five year anniversary with Make-A-Wish.
Nancy Walton Laurie Leadership Institute Team: This team has unveiled a new module on the relevant topic of life balance. The module was shared with chapter leaders and alumnae as part of a separate track at Convention. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Laurie Leadership Institute receives funding assistance from the Chi Omega Foundation.
National Convention Team: Last summer, the National Convention Team met in Memphis and developed strategic plans for taking Chi Omega Convention to a new level. We are thrilled to welcome our newest national team!
Regional Alumnae Directors (RADs): These dedicated women have connected with alumnae in new and different ways resulting in the formation of 11 new alumnae chapters during the past biennium. The RADs hosted an Alumnae Chapter President's Conference that brought alumnae chapter leaders to Memphis for a weekend of training and education. Several RADs participated in Chi Omega Today presentations held in twelve cities.

Chi Omega will make history when new initiatives are unveiled at Convention this summer. We will be launching a chapter dashboard to help our chapter leaders analyze performance measures and set goals for desired outcomes. In addition, we will present ideas to revitalize the Cardinal Cabinet structure in our chapters to enhance membership engagement and foster leadership.

It has been an exciting biennium for Chi Omega! Thanks to all of our members who make a difference each day.

Loyally yours,
Jean Mrasek, S.H.

Jean Mrasek, S.H.