Tri Sigma Foundation

Tri Sigma’s future headquarters in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Sigma Sigma Sigma National Sorority has announced that the organization’s Executive Council has officially approved the relocation of its national headquarters to Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

The decision came after an extensive review of a detailed, third-party feasibility study on the physical space needs of the administrative offices and archives. Several factors were considered, including the evolving needs of the organization and the cost of maintaining two properties—one of which was built in 1914.

“During the past few years, many organizations across all industries and sectors have reimagined the use of physical office spaces. With 75 percent of Tri Sigma’s full-time staff working remotely across 12 states, the operating needs of our organization have evolved,” said National President Joyce Newcom O’Daniel. “This move will allow us to dedicate a larger percentage of resources to serving the needs of our collegiate and alumnae members.”

The new headquarters will be located in the facility previously occupied by Tri Sigma’s Delta Delta Chapter at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It is owned by Tri Sigma, has an ADA-compliant ground floor, and is close to a major airport. In addition to making travel to NHQ more accessible to staff, volunteers, and other visitors, its proximity to three major universities will also provide expanded opportunities for larger in-person meetings and events.

While Woodstock has been Tri Sigma’s longest-running base of operations, it was not the first. Prior to Sigma’s purchase of the Walton House in the 1960s, the national office had previously moved to wherever the current national president lived.

“Woodstock, Virginia, will forever have an important place in Tri Sigma’s history. As we honor our time here and those who played a role in that part of our history, we also look forward to our next chapter,” said O’Daniel. “This decision looks toward our future and keeping Tri Sigma moving ever forward.”

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With too many awards to hold, Tri Sigma Sr. Director of Marketing and Communications Jennifer Freeman Thompson (center) receives some help from Tri Sigmas Mallory Hite Borino, Eta Omicron (left), Director of Marketing and Communications at Delta Gamma Sorority, and Rachel Greene, Beta Epsilon (right), Communications Director for Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity.

Each year, hundreds of communications and marketing professionals from fraternal organizations, professional membership groups, and honor societies gather for the Fraternity Communications Association’s annual conference. One highlight of the event is the awards banquet, where the industry’s best work created in the past year is honored. Tri Sigma is pleased to announce its Marketing and Communications Team has received the following 2022 FCA Awards:

CRITIC’S CHOICE AWARDS

Social Media Post – 2nd Place – Purple & Pearls Boutique Relaunch
Intended to promote the wide variety of new merchandise offered in the newly launched Purple & Pearls online boutique, this 6-part Instagram story allowed the audience to vote on their favorite new items. The day the post went live, the boutique saw a 250% increase in sales. Entries were judged on engagement rates, content and imagery, relevance to the intended audience, and outcome of social media engagement. The content was developed by Hannah Laux, Associate Director of Marketing and Communication.

2-Page Magazine Design – 2nd Place – “Road Trip to Farmville”
“Roadtrip to Farmville,” which appeared in the Fall 2022 issue of The Triangle, was written to generate member excitement for the then-upcoming 125th anniversary celebration in Farmville, Virginia. The piece, designed by Sr. Director of Marketing and Communication Jennifer Freeman Thompson, spotlights “Significantly Sigma” sights to see while in Farmville and the surrounding areas, including Tri Sigma’s seven collegiate chapters in Virginia and National Headquarters. Entries were judged on overall attractiveness of the design, and relevance to the intended audience.

COMMUNICATIONS AWARDS

Alumnae Engagement Effort – 2nd Place – Foundation Holiday Mailer
The 2022 annual holiday campaign used the recurring “Big Dreams” theme introduced at Convention to emphasize the importance of Tri Sigma leadership programming. Entries were judged on organization and attractiveness, usefulness and relevance to alumnae, and success of the effort. The content and strategy were developed by Foundation Director of Annual Giving Megan Elms Caldwell and was designed by Jennifer Freeman Thompson.

Publication Improvement—Printed Materials – 2nd Place – 2022 Annual Report
This award honors outstanding efforts to improve an existing printed material other than a magazine. Entries were judged on improvement of the copy and design, overall attractiveness of the updated version, and relevance to intended audience. The piece was written and designed by Jennifer Freeman Thompson with contributions from National President Joyce O’Daniel, Associate Executive Director of Enablement Lorin Philips, Accountant Linda May, Foundation Board Chair JeanMarie Komyathy, and Megan Elms Caldwell.

MAGAZINE & WRITING AWARDS

Story Packaging—Short – 2nd Place – “Road Trip to Farmville”
In addition to being selected by other fraternity/sorority marketing teams for overall design in the Critic’s Choice category (noted above), the “Road Trip to Farmville” story was recognized for combining outstanding writing and design through creativity, presentation, and organization using additional graphics, sidebar, or visual elements. The content was developed by Archives Committee Member Wendy Kirkpatrick, Director of Lifetime Engagement Meagan Earls and Jennifer Freeman Thompson.

Publication Improvement—Magazine – 2nd Place – The Triangle
This award honors outstanding efforts to improve an existing magazine that has undergone significant change during 2022. Entries were judged on the improvement of design, improvement of copy, overall attractiveness of the updated version, and relevance to the intended audience. The Triangle was edited and designed by Jennifer Freeman Thompson with contributions from National President Joyce O’Daniel, Foundation Board Chair JeanMarie Komyathy, Megan Elms Caldwell, and Triangle volunteers Devyn Vinson and Jennifer Kuhn Call. Additional copy editing was provided by Executive Director Jenna Martin Pendry, Office Manager Margaret Fields, and Hannah Laux. Click here to view the entire issue.

FCA received more than 600 submissions from its 70+ member organizations, and 28 organizations received awards for outstanding efforts in a variety of writing, design, and communication categories. A list of all winners and categories can be found here.

Tri Sigma National Sorority is pleased to announce the chartering of its Birmingham Alumnae Chapter. Though officially approved by Executive Council this summer, an event was held October 22 at Huffman Baptist Church in Huffman, Alabama, to celebrate the official signing of the chapter’s charter.

National Vice President Veronica Atkins Seymour represented the national organization at the event.

“Tri Sigma is excited and committed to officially be part of the Birmingham and surrounding areas,” said Seymour. “Our Birmingham Alumnae Chapter members look forward to serving the community through our philanthropic service in the areas of children’s and maternal health initiatives and be an additional resource to our collegiate chapter at Auburn University and the Birmingham Alumnae Panhellenic Association.”

Stacy Rowan, who was initiated in the Alpha Xi Chapter at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, serves as Alumnae Chapter President. Other elected officers include Treasurer Carin Klein Pryor, Zeta Nu–University of Maryland, Baltimore County; Membership and Collegiate Relations Chair Kate Kramer, Programming and Social Media Chair Lily Lemond, and Foundation and Philanthropy Chair Brenda Hudgins DuVall—each initiated at Theta Iota Chapter at Auburn University; and Alumnae Panhellenic Representative Susette Clark-Walker, Alpha Sigma–University of Southern Mississippi.

Tri Sigma has nearly 140,000 lifetime members and 81 alumnae chapters across the United States. Local alumnae interested in joining can request upcoming meeting information at bhmtrisigma@gmail.com.

WOODSTOCK, VA—It is with tremendous sorrow we report the passing of past Executive Council Member Marilynn Schmitt Kinsella, Alpha Xi–University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She entered Omega Chapter on February 28, 2022, at the age of 92.

Initiated in the spring of 1947 at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Marilynn later earned a graduate degree from the University of Iowa. She served Tri Sigma as National Music Director from 1953-54, National Vice President from 1954–62 and Toastmistress at the 25^th Convention in 1959. She was a charter member of the Chicago North Shore Alumnae Chapter and was active in the Chicago Northwest Suburban Alumnae Chapter at the time of her passing.

Marilynn had two children, including Karrie Kinsella Benjamin, Gamma Alpha–University of Illinois, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents and two siblings, including Martha Schmitt Berg, Sigma­­–Western State College.

“Marilynn, fondly known as ‘Schmitty,’ was a beloved Sigma who inspired so many sisters through her nearly 75-year commitment to Tri Sigma. Her warmth, smile, and friendly spirit brightened a room. We are saddened by her loss and extend our condolences to her friends and family. Schmitty will be missed, and her legacy will live on within her daughter and fellow Tri Sigma sister, Karrie Benjamin,” said National President Natalie Moore Averette, Gamma Beta–East Carolina University.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to All Saints Lutheran Church’s Good Samaritan Fund, or the Tri Sigma Foundation in her memory. Sympathy cards may be mailed to Tri Sigma National Headquarters at 225 North Muhlenberg Street, Woodstock, VA 22664, to be sent to the family.

“Schmitty, who insisted all Sigmas use her nickname from her Alpha Xi days, was happiest and the most fulfilled in her times with family. From my very first memories, Sigma has been an immersive part of our family. We saw firsthand how sisters were there through thick and thin to support us,” said daughter Karrie. “Mom lived that same dedication and devotion, often while wearing purple. I already miss my mom and Tri Sigma sister greatly.”

Tri Sigma Receives Campus Prevention Network Seal of Prevention for Exceptional Commitment to Digital Student Wellness, Safety, and Inclusion Efforts

Tri Sigma has been named a recipient of the Campus Prevention Network (CPN) Seal of Prevention. Presented by Vector Solutions, the CPN Seal of Prevention is awarded to institutions of higher education and fraternity/sorority organizations that have demonstrated leadership in digital prevention programming focused on student safety, well-being, and inclusion.

Each recipient of the CPN Seal of Prevention has taken action to create a safer, more inclusive campus through comprehensive, evidence-based digital prevention education on issues such as sexual assault, alcohol misuse, mental health, and discrimination. The CPN Seal of Prevention establishes guidelines for discerning quality online prevention education and implementation practices, and positions prevention as central to key institutional outcomes, including: recruitment, student success, retention, and advancement.

Tri Sigma announced their prevention philosophy in 2013 with one goal: to reduce the high-risk behaviors as identified in our internal assessment. To accomplish this goal, the organization invested in the online program GreekLife.Edu (and later Mental Well-being), recruited and trained highly skilled SAFE Team volunteers, developed a data-driven prevention plan. That plan included implementing the Prevention Institute which focuses on developing skills to help students create their local prevention plan, in-person proactive chapter retreats (called Sisterhood and Safety) to help students and advisors feel empowered to and effectively prevent high-risk behaviors in their chapter, and revamped the discipline process to create the STRIDES retreat. As a result of these efforts, the data shows a significant decrease in problematic and high risk drinking, fewer members are experiencing negative impacts of alcohol consumption (hangovers, academic impacts, injury, etc.), and decrease in bystander behaviors.

“We are excited to name Tri Sigma as a 2021 recipient of the CPN Seal of Prevention,” said Vector Solutions CEO Marc Scheipe. “Tri Sigma has demonstrated a true commitment to students by investing in both their academic success inside the classroom as well as their well-being and experiences outside the classroom. We are proud to recognize Tri Sigma for their exemplary work helping to make college and university communities safer and more inclusive.” 

“Tri Sigma believes we all have a role in harm reduction and strives to be a partner in prevention,” said Tri Sigma Executive Director Jenna Martin Pendry. “We are thankful for the partnership with Vector Solutions and the added value they’ve provided by offering high-quality programming, creating annual impact reports and offering insights, and the opportunity for continued learning by being part of the Campus Prevention Network.”

The criteria for the CPN Seal of Prevention are based on the Principles of Effective Prevention Programs (Nation, et al., 2003). Over one thousand campuses are evaluated on an annual basis to determine eligibility. A full list of the 2021 recipients of the CPN Seal of Prevention and more information on the award can be found here.

Are you interested in Executive Council service?

The 46th National Convention of Tri Sigma will be held June 23 – June 25, 2022, in Norfolk, Va. Plans are well underway, and June 2022 will prove to be an exciting and historic time for Tri Sigma. One of the most important items of business conducted at Convention is the election of Executive Council. Applications are now being accepted for Executive Council positions. Please note that individuals must apply and nominations are no longer accepted. Applications must be received no later than January 1, 2022.

How does the application process work?

All applications are received by the nominating committee. The committee works diligently to select candidates who are most qualified and best suited to lead the organization. As the process begins, all candidates are rigorously vetted, much like the process when applying to work for a company. All committee members thoroughly review applications, cover letters, and resumes as submitted by applicants. Credentials of each candidate are examined, interviews are conducted, and references are verified. After extensive evaluation, a slate of highly adept officers is prepared and presented at Convention to be voted upon by the assembly of credentialed delegates.

What positions comprise the Executive Council?

The nominating committee will determine who is most qualified to serve on Executive Council and the following positions will be slated for the following office:

• National President
• National Treasurer
• Four National Vice Presidents

Click here to read the full position descriptions. Current Council members do not automatically continue and must participate in the process in the same manner as other applicants. They may also decide not to seek re-election because they have the current term limits or for personal reasons.

How do you submit an application?

As a Tri Sigma, you have the opportunity to apply for Executive Council service if you are an alumnae member in good standing, meet the qualifications and requirements, and are able to honor the full commitment of service. Applications must be received no later than January 1, 2022.

Click here to apply!

Purpose: 

The nominating committee is charged with identifying the most qualified nominees for Executive Council service and to develop a slate of the best candidates for office, which is presented to the voting assembly at Convention for consideration.

The nominating committee members need a clear understanding of governance leadership, broad acquaintance with the membership and comprehension of the organization’s mission, vision, and values, including the strategic initiatives.

Committee Composition:

• A former Council member is appointed to chair the committee.
• Six members are selected via the application process.

Note: Current Executive Council members and current staff members are ineligible to serve on the committee.

Nominating Committee members are ineligible for Executive Council candidacy.

Selection Process:

• July 31, 2021: Application Deadline
• August 2021: Selection of the nominating committee chair and committee members by Executive Council
• August 2021: Notification of appointment sent to selected committee members
• September 2021: Service begins

Requirements:

• Submit a completed application, including a resumé noting professional experience and involvement in Tri Sigma;
• Sign confidentiality agreement. ALL work of the committee is to remain confidential at ALL times;
• Have a clear understanding of board governance and the mission, vision, values, and strategic initiatives of Sigma Sigma Sigma;
• Be a member in good standing; and
• Devote necessary time and energy to accomplish the work of the committee, which includes evenings and weekends. The majority of the Committee’swork takes place during the months of January and February of the Convention year, but also includes preparatory work upon appointment to the committee in the latter part of the year preceding Convention.

Expectations:

Nominating committee members must:

• Attend committee meetings;
• Be a participating member of the committee;
• Participate in a courteous manner;
• Be open-minded, objective, and diplomatic;
• Listen to and be respectful of different opinions;
• Exhibit no bias or advocacy for any candidate(s) or issue(s);
• Be willing to express individual opinion(s);
• Be fair, ethical, and impartial when evaluating candidates;
• Ask insightful questions and listen to answers;
• Seek clarity if greater understanding is needed about specifics or if additional knowledge about Sigma-related information is needed; and
• Have a broad view of the needs of the sorority.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Understand and commit to the expectations, responsibilities, and requirements to serve as a member of the nominating committee;
• Understand the nominating process, including the timeline, job description and requirements, and all resources/tools used in the process;
• Review and have a clear understanding of the qualifications, duties, responsibilities, and requirements of Executive Council service and of each Council position as outlined in the Executive Council description documents;
• Thoroughly review the candidates’ submission, including the application, resume, and any other supporting documentation;
• Participate in committee calls;
• Engage in group discussions about candidates’ qualifications, experience, and skills;
• Interview candidates;
• Take part in discussions to formulate slate and recommend best suited and most qualified candidates for Executive Council service; and
• Complete other duties as assigned by the chair of the committee.

Term of Service:

• Upon appointment and until the close of Convention.

Contact Jenna Martin Pendry, Executive Director at jpendry@trisigma.org with any questions.

Click here to apply for the 2021-2022 nominating committee.

Join us as we celebrate our volunteers!