2023 Alumnae Excellence Award Winners
Excellence in Alumnae Engagement
Small: Fort Myers Area, Florida, Alumnae Club
The Fort Myers Area, Florida, Alumnae Club encouraged alumnae engagement through innovative and inclusive approaches to ensure all members feel welcomed and fulfilled in their involvement. In early 2023, the club mailed an “Angel Newsletter” to its members, detailing club events throughout the year and various interest groups members could join to stay connected. Additionally, the club introduced new and diverse gatherings, such as happy hours and themed events, along with traditional meetings and philanthropic service activities.
Large: Bostonian, Massachusetts, Alumnae Club
To promote alumnae engagement across its multi-generational membership, the Bostonian, Massachusetts, Alumnae Club initiated new events, interest groups and communication strategies to ensure accessibility for all members. While many of these involvement opportunities have proven to be successful, the club’s Sunday afternoon book club is one of the most loved among members, with participants ranging from recent college graduates to Golden Arrows.
Excellence in Fun & Friendship
Small: Cypress Creek-Northwest Houston, Texas, Alumnae Club
The Cypress Creek-Northwest Houston, Texas, Alumnae Club implemented many new strategies and ideas in 2023 to enhance the club’s programming and overall camaraderie. From surveying members to gather genuine feedback to developing an outreach program to help sisters in need, the club ensures a welcoming and close-knit community. Additionally, Cypress Creek-Northwest Houston club prioritizes active communication with both new and longstanding members to stay connected with one another.
Large: Indianapolis, Indiana, Alumnae Club
In 2023, the Indianapolis, Indiana, Alumnae Club was dedicated to reengaging alumnae through events focused on fun and Sincere Friendship. By offering multiple events to accommodate all members’ availability and interests, the club saw a 1100% increase in attendance at their kickoff meeting compared to the previous year. The club also continued to offer its most loved engagement opportunities such as the “Cheer Committee” and participation in the Champions are Readers® (CAR) program.
Excellence in Lifelong Commitment
Small: Southlake Area, Texas, Alumnae Club
The Southlake Area, Texas, Alumnae Club’s theme for 2023 was “Rooted in Sisterhood” to emphasize growth, nourishment and connection. To ensure everyone feels supported, the club introduced “Guardian Angel Groups” which allows a member to be randomly assigned a group and help those members stay connected throughout the year. Additionally, the Southlake Area club welcomed new alumnae initiates and hosted themed meetings focusing on relevant educational topics to help members stay engaged.
Large: Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Alumnae Club
The Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Alumnae Club prioritized engagement with senior collegiate members in all Michigan chapters to help them feel supported as they transition to post-undergraduate life. The club members did so by participating in the chapters’ activities and ceremonies as well as inviting them to events and gatherings. Through these initiatives, the Bloomfield Hills alumnae club fosters a multi-generational community which demonstrates the value of Lifelong Commitment.
Excellence in Community Service (Non-Literacy)
Small: Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Alumnae Club
The Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Alumnae Club encouraged its members to engage in service through volunteering for both local and global organizations which leave a direct impact on the communities they serve. A few of these organizations include Habitat for Humanity, Brewer-Porch Children's Center and West Alabama Humane Society. Members who are regularly involved in their community are often highlighted on the club’s social media to celebrate their service and spark inspiration for others.
Large: San Jose, California, Alumnae Club
The San Jose, California, Alumnae Club has been recognized by various organizations––such as Family Giving Tree, the Making Strides Walk and Second Harvest Food Bank––due to their generous support and continued contributions. Additionally, at each club gathering, members are encouraged to bring items to donate to local organizations to further support the community. Making a difference through providing service remains at the forefront of the San Jose club’s purpose and mission.
Excellence in Literacy Initiatives
Small: Southlake Area, Texas, Alumnae Club
The Southlake Area, Texas, Alumnae Club actively worked to promote literacy through its themed gatherings. At the club’s first official meeting in September 2023, members were encouraged to visit Little Free Libraries ® in the community to donate books, and in October, members showed support for Dyslexia Awareness Month. These are just a couple of the many ways the Southlake Area club promotes awareness around literacy––these initiatives not only help to educate and inspire members, but also impact the communities they serve.
Large: Indianapolis, Indiana, Alumnae Club
At the heart of the Indianapolis, Indiana, Alumnae Club is a mission and drive to promote literacy through participating, donating and advocating. Through active participation in CAR, regular donations to the Literacy Fund and encouraging involvement, the Indianapolis club made a true difference in its community. In 2023, members of the club contributed more than 240 volunteer hours and donated more than 500 books locally.
Published June 3, 2024