HRC Virtual Volunteer Fair

Name: Allyson Jones

Chapter of Initiation: Alpha Chi

Years of Service: 5

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Highly organized
• Quick and efficient communicator
• Natural leader

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• Forming relationships with sisters across numerous generations.
• Seeing young women grow into the best versions of themselves.
• The leadership experience you gain.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• Patience and understanding

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• Hard work and lots of questions
• Hundreds of new friendships

Name: Jane Tessmer

Chapter of Initiation: Gamma Theta

Years of Service: 33

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Organization
• Detail oriented
• Time management
• Adaptability
• Patience

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• I am giving back to something that has given so much to me.
• Guiding the future leaders of AOII.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• Organization
• Adaptability

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• Genuine love
• Difficult conversations
• Watching our future grow and mature
• Playing devil’s advocate to get the chapter to see all angles

Name: Kathy Sowell

Chapter of Initiation: Lambda Tau 

Years of Service: 2 as CA; 29 years in other volunteer roles

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Broad understanding of the Fraternity’s operations and structure.
• Ability to cultivate strong relationships with others.
• Ability to manage personal time well.
• Ability to respond rather than react to conflict.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• Watching the young women I support bring their ideas to fruition is amazing.
• I cherish the relationships I have developed and am continuing to develop with fellow advisors.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• Active listening

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• As a Chapter Advisor, you spend your time coaching collegiate officers as they plan activities on behalf of their sisters. You find yourself posing questions that allow them to come to their own answers. You also find yourself coaching new advisors in their work with assigned officers. You sometimes find yourself serving in the role of counselor when personal issues impact the day to day of a young woman. You work to foster relationships with the University and the Greek Life office. You enjoy the time you spend with your sisters as we do this thing called life together.

Name: Marissa Lo

Chapter of Initiation: Beta Kappa

Years of Service: 2

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Desire to learn new skills. This was my first time supporting the chapter in a “big picture” role.
• Previous experience as an advisor. I started advising in 2013 and held previous roles of Communications Advisor and Recruitment Advisor.
• Not a personal talent, but knowing that I had the support of a dedicated AB made this role much more manageable.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• Supporting and guiding the leaders of the collegiate chapter. Seeing how officers navigate difficult situations and problem solve.
• Connecting to a wider group of sisters, including the Network Team, HQ, and those across Canada/US.
• Working with an amazing group of AB members.
• Developing personal skills, such as team management, recruitment, and conflict resolution.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• Dedication
• Patience
• Time-management

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• The Chapter Advisor role is a challenging, yet highly rewarding experience. At the beginning, many hours were spent reviewing materials and learning about the chapter and its operations from a different perspective. However, all of that time is worth it as you observe the chapter leadership develop their skills and make the sorority experience their own. It is an honor and joy to work so closely with a collegiate chapter, while also collaborating and strengthening relationships with members of the AB. 

Name: Michelle Lawrence

Chapter of Initiation: Lambda Tau

Years of Service: 4 

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Eager to help, supportive, dependable, loyal, think out of the box, creative, be able to advise with out over stepping.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• Being able to mentor young ladies.
• Feeling loved and wanted.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• You have to be able to get all the chapter to work through decisions and changes with out trying to push them to do it “like the old days”.
• Be there to support and follow through with them.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• It does require a lot of time if you really want to be hands on, so if you have a demanding family make sure your have great support on the CCAB to fill in sometimes.

Name: Carly Bella

Chapter of Initiation: Omega Upsilon

Years of Service: 4

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• I believe each Chapter Advisor brings her unique talents that become part of the chapter’s culture. I have brought my talents of compassion, empathy and kindness; vision and communication; and an unwavering belief in possibilities! I hope that when my service as CA concludes, Iota Theta will continue to have that special sparkle — genuine, kind, intelligent, ambitious leaders who make a difference for each other, their campus and the world. I am so proud of Iota Theta and how they embody AOII at Monmouth University!

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• My college experience at Ohio University and Alpha Omicron Pi in the 1990s was absolutely magical — and if I can pass on even a fraction of that magic to others, then I know my time serving has been well spent. Witnessing the growth of our women from new members to chapter leaders and beyond is incredibly rewarding. And, it warms my heart when they offer their gratitude or express AOII has made the difference they needed in their lives. I also find it rewarding to serve with other alumnae, developing wonderful friendships and connections across our region and beyond.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• To me, the most important trait is empathy. It’s imperative that we foster a compassionate culture in which members learn, grow, challenge and support each other. As advisors, we have the fortune of wisdom from life’s experiences, so we must understand the perspectives of these incredible young women and allow them to develop their own wisdom. I strive to provide mentorship, counsel and support that enables our collegians to build confidence and make their own choices from which they’ll learn and grow.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• You’ll learn that college life has changed tremendously over the years and with that, our members face new challenges and ways of thinking. Those challenges in turn become our challenges as advisors, and we must also understanding their ways of thinking today. Still, it is AOII that can provide the essential environment for women to build cherished friendships, manage their mental health and wellbeing, gain essential leadership skills, form countless memories, and cultivate confidence and values to change the world! 

Name: Sarah Elliott

Chapter of Initiation: Delta Omega 

Years of Service: 16 as a volunteer, 10 as CA

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Dedication and a willingness to learn. When I first took on this role, I printed out and read every manual and learned everything I could about being the Chapter Advisor. I also wanted the chapter to feel they had a constant, someone they see frequently and know will be there to support them through the good and the bad times. 

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• The chapter members are who make this role so rewarding. It is an honor to be here for their successes, for the sisterhood and to see them grow during their time in the chapter. It is so rewarding to get to know them and get to work with them and see them really understand what AOII is about from their freshman year to their senior year and then as alumnae. The relationships and the connections I have made, including with other alumnae both local and across the country, have made this an incredible experience. I can never give back to AOII all that it has given to me. 

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• A love for AOII, the chapter members, and a desire to guide and support them. If a chapter member feels loved and supported, it greatly enhances their membership experience. 

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• It is not the easiest role but it has definitely been the most rewarding. A Chapter Advisor can expect to spend several hours each week attending meetings, corresponding via email or text, and communicating with the officers and CCAB. You can expect to spend more time than planned; however, you can also expect to be rewarded beyond measure.

Name: Leslie Michaels

Chapter of Initiation: Nu Lambda (USC-Fight On!)

 Years of Service: 10

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Approachable.
• Committed to the success of the chapter.
• Mentor – provide leadership training.  I help the officers approach their position as a project manager, which allows for excellent real world experiences.
• Good organizational skills.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• Working one-on-one with the development and mentoring of college women.
• Guiding and supporting all chapter members. 
• The greatest gift I receive is when members at graduation, share that they have grown personally, challenged themselves along the way and built meaningful relationships with each other. 

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• Guide don’t decide.
• Be a positive voice to the officers and members, by showing appreciation and recognition for their hard work and accomplishments.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• Building new relationships with hundreds of chapter women and members of the advisory team.
• Lending a sympathetic ear when problems arise and holding the members and officers accountable to meet goals and objectives of running a successful chapter.
• Keeping the officer’s priorities in mind, knowing that many officers work along with school and sometimes officers just need a little break to re-energize.

Name: Cristy Lewis
Chapter of Initiation: Omega Sigma
Years of Service: 2

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• This role is all about teaching women to excel at recruitment. I’m a 7th-grade teacher by trade and have a passion and background in sorority recruitment. At Oklahoma State, I held leadership positions and served on the Executive Recruitment Committee with a focus on Membership Selection. I am also a Recruitment Adviser for Theta Sigma which has given me additional, invaluable recruitment training and practice. In short, I love recruitment! I enjoy the fast-paced environment and teaching women how to make a genuine connection.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• The most rewarding part of the Recruitment Ambassador role is forming connections and relationships with sisters all over the US. I keep up with many of the women I have met on visits, and it’s fulfilling to know that the communication and social skills they have learned during recruitment are real-world skills. Recruitment helps collegiate women succeed in relationships, interviews, future careers, and life.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• I think the most important trait you can have as a Recruitment Ambassador is the ability to facilitate and engage an audience. The RA must be comfortable speaking in front of an audience and creating buy-in. The workshops are more than a PowerPoint. Recruitment Ambassadors must be skilled in crafting a workshop that includes meaningful activities, reflection, and engagement from the chapter.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• After getting assigned a chapter for a Recruitment Ambassador visit, you will set up a call with the recruitment team. Leading up to the visit, you will gather information and create a workshop that will effectively meet their needs. On the day of the visit, you will facilitate the workshop you have created for them. You can expect to be called to an RA visit 4-6 times per year.

Name: Molly Bennett
Chapter of Initiation: Chi Theta
Years of Service: 1

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• My commitment to ritual and the belief that our ritual is what helps AOII’s everywhere change the world!
• I also have a love of sharing ritual with sisters and greatly enjoy hearing others interpret what ritual means to them.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• You could meet 1,000 AOII’s and each one would have a different meaning of ritual and it would impact her life in a different way than the others.
• Being able to listen to how sisters live and love ritual is so rewarding and only continues to enrich my life and the lessons that AOII has given.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• A commitment to sharing ritual with others and being flexible in the process!
• One of the best parts of this role is the ability to tailor presentations to each chapter that you visit.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• To work with an amazing team, a great HQ staff partner in Samantha, and to speak with amazing women about our ritual!
• You will complete 1-2 visits a semester and Samantha is excellent at making sure it works with your schedule.

Name: Cindy Tooley
Chapter of Initiation: Alpha Chi
Years of Service: 1

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• I love training and mentoring, and is something I do in my professional career. I have previously held several advisory roles (including Chapter Advisor). Having served on an AAC/CCAB and the training experience at work have been very useful skills for the Training Ambassador position.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• Giving back to our Fraternity through working with our local chapters and providing the hands-on opportunity to help them advance their knowledge and leadership skills has been personally rewarding.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• The ability to listen and ask questions to assist with understanding their training needs along with confidence to present to a small group.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• This is a rewarding volunteer position that is very manageable from a time commitment standpoint. Communication, leadership and support within this volunteer group is awesome! You will find the resources needed for this role are available and easily accessible. The Training Ambassador (and other ambassador roles) are a great volunteer position for someone who is looking to volunteer beyond a local chapter opportunity.

Name: Laura Pope
Chapter of Initiation: Mu Lambda
Years of Service: 12

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Organization skills
• Communication skills: Influencing & cross-generational communication
• Natural curiosity: approaching things with positive intent and ritual
• Meeting people where they are related to AOII knowledge
• Change mindset: taking small steps towards change helps maintain lasting improvements
• Ownership: the collegiate women own the chapter, I am here to guide and provide best practices
• Being resourceful
• Team work makes the dream work!

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• Hearing from advisers and chapter members that the tools and info you gave them helped the chapter AND helped them in their work or daily life.
• Seeing a chapter’s accomplishments and being proud to work with them

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• Understanding that you should only work as hard as the chapter members.
• They own things and you can try to influence, reinvigorate, and energize, but they are the ones who need to do the work.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• A crash course in AOII operations
• Working with a group of amazing sisters who will support you
• You don’t have to know all the answers, just be resourceful
• Meeting and becoming close to women you may not have ever known otherwise
• Seeing & learning about other AOII perspectives and experiences

Name: Darcy Kaul
Chapter of Initiation: Gamma Delta
Years of Service: 6

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Creativity, problem solving, team building, and building a culture have been important parts of my professional career, so it was almost natural for me to take on this role. Our women are innovative, and part of our role is to empower and challenge them to think outside of the box. Although it is not a talent, my genuine love for AOII and our sisters has also made me a good match for this role. I want our women to love and appreciate AOII, so I am here to support them as much as I can.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING?

• It is so rewarding to watch our sisters reach their goals whether it be obtaining quota, launching a new PR campaign, raising over their philanthropy goal, or fulfilling the ongoing work of COB. It is even more rewarding to watch them succeed in implementing new ideas and sharing them with other chapters. We are better when we work together, and it is inspiring to be part of a group that is proud of their accomplishments, big or small.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• With each chapter and campus being different, you must be creative in your ideas to help them improve. It is not always easy, but we must push the chapters to be the best that they can be. One chapter may need extra assistance in creating new COB events, while another may need physical help during recruitment. Being able to adapt to each of their needs is important in helping everyone be successful. Our purpose is to help them grow as individuals and a sisterhood, so being intentional about our actions and words towards them is crucial.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• Anyone in this role will thrive if they have a heart for empowering our women. We are not expected to know all of the answers, but between HQ and all Network Teams, we have a huge support system that is here to help us help them. In Network 7, we have monthly calls, but they are fun because we genuinely enjoy each other’s company. It is even better when we get to attend AOII events! This role can be challenging at times, but it is worth it.

Name: Laura Plummer
Chapter of Initiation: Alpha Delta
Years of Service: 2

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Broad understanding of collegiate officer roles/adviser roles
• Timely communication
• Patience and understanding that growth takes time and effort
• Proactive rather than reactive mindset
• Ability to develop meaningful relationships with collegians and alumnae

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING?

• Being a Network Specialist for New Chapter Development is rewarding because you get to work with women who are a part of a new AOII chapter.  In my experience, these women have been enthusiastic, responsible, and exceptional leaders. Being able to help them grow is especially rewarding when you are able to watch them recruit exceptional new members, grow their sisterhood, and win AOII and campus awards.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• The most important trait to have as a NS-NCD is the ability to empower women to find the answers they need.  While it may be easy to simply answer a question that an adviser or officer may have, it is important that they begin to learn where answers to common questions can be found.  By teaching them to use their tools (Fulfilling the Promise, Chapter Spot, Billhighway, ICS/CampusDirector, etc) to find answers to questions, you are preparing them to ultimately leave New Chapter Development and join a Network.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• By taking a role as NS-NCD, you can expect to play a key part in developing a new AOII chapter.  While each chapter will have its own specific needs, some general areas that you will most likely focus on are recruiting and training new advisers, assisting with formal recruitment and COB plans, and check-ins with the Chapter President and Chapter Adviser. You can also expect to continue to learn about AOII and build relationships to last a lifetime.

Name: Melanie Mitchell

Chapter of Initiation: Chi Psi

Years of Service: 1 year on CFC, 8 years on AACs

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• This role is a great fit for me because it requires project and task management, open communication and attention to detail!I have several years of educational and professional experience in those areas which I can apply serving AOII. I have held several collegian and alumnae roles in AOII which helps with knowledge of chapter and network operations.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• Being a member of the Collegiate Finance Committee is rewarding in several ways. I love working with my chapters through large tasks and projects and seeing them through to completion! I also enjoy getting to know and learn from other sisters on the committee as well as the chapters that I work with. Finally, I’ve never held finance positions within AOII so it has been fun and rewarding to learn!

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• This role requires willingness to communicate and ask for help when needed, especially being newer to AOII’s financial operations!It also is important to have strong time and task management in order to support chapter officers as we work to meet several deadlines.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE?

• A member of the Collegiate Finance Committee can expect to have a strong support system within the committee, to work collaboratively to meet deadlines and to have fun supporting sisters from several chapters they may have never had the chance to work with!

NAME: Debbie Tam

CHAPTER OF INITIATION: Beta Phi

YEARS OF SERVICE: 1.5 years

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Attention to detail
• Previous volunteer experience
• Collaborative spirit
• Ability to objectively review 

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING?

• CIRC reviews documents and processes that are vital to the Fraternity. These provide and maintain a consistent basis for operation and as such are important to both individual members as well as the Fraternity as a whole.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE?

• Attention to detail

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE? 

• The time commitment is not as great as in some volunteer roles but when there is something to address, turnaround time may be quick. 
• Most of the committee’s communication is through email. 
• Your role is not to set policy or procedures but to review it. It is important to be able to recognize the difference.

NAME: Heather Stanton

CHAPTER OF INITIATION: Pi Alpha

YEARS OF SERVICE: 1 year

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE?

• Problem solving using collaboration to encourage discussion, idea sharing, and innovative approaches to meeting challenges.
• Situational awareness, knowing when to be assertive in offering opinions and acting, even when the team’s position may be unpopular.
• Ability to build trust by being approachable, proving I can keep confidences, be honest, fair, patient, and open.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• I’m passionate about helping shape the future of our Fraternity in a strategic and lasting way.  We have the ability to enacting much needed change and providing education to members at all levels to make the organization I love be a more welcoming place for all women and allow members to be proud of their authentic selves.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE? 

• It’s not easy to embrace change, but it’s necessary to challenge tradition and unconscious biases to achieve progress. I’m flexible, open, and supportive of new ideas and ways of doing things.  I seek other viewpoints to ensure we’re making the best recommendations for our organization.  Listening to those whose ideas or opinions were not adopted to make sure they at least accept the change and still see their place within the Fraternity.  Sometimes you must let go of self-interest and not stand in the way of change.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE? 

• Collaboration with all aspects of the Fraternity to ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion are a factor in all policies and programs put forth by the Fraternity. Expect to work with a diverse group of people who are passionate about DE&I and advocates for innovation who put in the work but also enjoy working with each other.

NAME: Leah Horton

CHAPTER OF INITIATION: Tau Gamma

YEARS OF SERVICE: 2 years

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE? 

• Strong attention to detail
• Familiarity with the Fraternity’s structure and resources 
• Past Advising Experience
• Presentation Experience, with an outgoing personality to match
• Collaborative Mindset
• Independent worker with ability to meet agreed upon deadlines
• Altruistic vision and conceptualization of the Fraternity and how it operates

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• The most rewarding aspect of this role is giving collegians, advisors, and alumnae the tools they need to be most successful in their roles. Whether it is teaching someone about a resource they didn’t know existed, or explaining a concept or new way to view a situation during a presentation, being able to give leaders glimpses into the bigger organization, our mission, and our tools to get the job is the most rewarding part of the role. 

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE? 

• Past advising experience is particularly helpful for this role. Having a deep understanding of what resources the Fraternity has to educate members about their roles and our systems, and understanding the content of those materials is critical. 

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE? 

• You can expect to work and collaborate with other standing committees, engage in independent work like reviewing or writing materials primarily for Fulfilling the Promise, collaborate with other AOII volunteers and staff on Fraternity-wide projects and presentations, and work with staff to steer the educational direction of our events. 

NAME: Ramsey Folb

CHAPTER OF INITIATION: Tau

YEARS OF SERVICE: 1 year

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE? 

• The talents that made me a match for this role are my background in the HR / Talent Acquisition space paired with my experience as an Educational Leadership Consultant. I have recruitment experience in both my professional work and work with AOII. I can combine both experiences to make smart decisions when recruiting volunteers. 

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• This role is rewarding because we are given the opportunity to work with sisters all across the country! There is a lot of collaboration and brainstorming involved in recruiting and retaining our Network volunteers. It is also fun to share professional work experiences with my fellow committee members where we can bond, laugh, and discuss relevant topics as a group. I have learned so much in my short time in this role and look forward to learning even more!

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE? 

• The most important talent or trait to have in this role would be good communication. There is a lot of communication between different stakeholders and it is important to communicate effectively and stay organized. With so many moving parts while overseeing multiple Networks, one can easily lose track of addressing any questions/concerns in a timely manner if they are not organized.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE? 

• By taking this role, someone can expect a lot of email communication between Network Directors and fellow HRC members. They can also expect monthly check ins either through live calls or emails. Someone should also expect to do a lot of outreach to sisters from all over the country gauging their interest in current and future volunteer opportunities within the Network. 

NAME: Karen Hickman

CHAPTER OF INITIATION: Theta

YEARS OF SERVICE: 3+ years and counting

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE? 

• In no particular order I’d say flexibility, organization, collaboration and creativity.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• By far, meeting and working with many sisters of many ages in many capacities.  I’m constantly learning and growing thanks to them.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE? 

• A love of Ritual and the Fraternity and a willingness to share it with sisters in a loving way. 

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE? 

• You’ll have a group of sisters to help you acclimate to the role of RT&J Liaison.  The other RT&J liaisons, staff partner Mariellen, Historian Allison and IP Crystal are great resources to learn from and all are willing to share what they know.
• There’s lots to learn before you’ll feel comfortable.  
• You honor the sisters who came before you, enjoy the sisters beside you, and will set the tone for the sisters to come. 

NAME: Megan Erisman

CHAPTER OF INITIATION: Iota

YEARS OF SERVICE: 15 years

WHAT TALENTS MADE YOU A GREAT MATCH FOR THIS ROLE? 

• I had served as Panhellenic Delegate and on Panhellenic Exec as a chapter member, which were great experiences and left me with great affection for Panhellenic. Working as chapter consultant for AOII after college and as a Network Specialist allowed me to see how truly important Panhellenic cooperation can be towards success. I also work in higher education so the issues that NPC may be working through are relevant to the issues college students, chapters, and campuses are facing.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROLE REWARDING? 

• I really love the community aspect of NPC working together to serve our chapters and the benefits of Greek Life. I also love serving on a committee, with other sisters volunteering in the same role. It feels like a team and very focused. Personally, I work best from a strategic point of view, that’s where I start before I drill down into details. So it’s a natural fit for me when changes or decisions are needed, I naturally think about the campus, the perspective of our chapter on that campus in order to gather info or drive discussions.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TALENT OR TRAIT TO HAVE IN THIS ROLE? 

• Being adaptable. It’s important to recognize that no one campus is made the same. Even though NPC guides itself through cooperation through the 26 chapters, it’s important to understand how policy affects individual campuses differently and working with our chapters in understanding what or why something is best for their success may look different across the board.

WHAT CAN SOMEONE EXPECT BY TAKING ON THIS ROLE? 

• You can expect to have a lot of resources at your disposal, not just policies and procedures but also strong volunteers, our Chief Panhellenic Officer, and HQ Staff that keeps us up to date on college trends, NPC and AOII initiatives. You also can expect to work with chapter members, advisors and a network team. It’s a nice balance of being detailed and strategic. And you’ll get to work with an amazing group of sisters who serve on our Panhellenics Committee!