Q&A with T.J. Sullivan about his book "Motivating the Middle"

T.J. Sullivan, cofounder and CEO of CAMPUSPEAK, an agency which provides educational speakers and workshops for colleges and universities, has written his first book Motivating the Middle: Fighting Apathy in College Student Organizations. The book is a practical guide for college student leaders, as well as those who work with college students, about engaging with the “middle third members” – those who care for your organization but may choose not to take formal leadership positions. T.J. recently sat down with us here at Delta Zeta to share some insight behind the book with our members.

DZ: You start the book with a quote from Ian Fleming: “A horse is dangerous at both ends and uncomfortable in the middle.” Sounds like a great metaphor for student organizations. Why does this quote speak to you?

T.J.: I just loved that quote. When people think of a horse, they think of the head, or maybe of the danger of the back end. No one thinks about the middle, yet any horse trainer will tell you that what ends up there affects the race. The same goes with a student organization. People think about the out-front leaders (the "top third") and perhaps those that cause drama and problems (the "bottom third"), and ignore the middle folks who are solid members, but not leaders. My book suggests that if you want to truly energize your chapter or your organization, you have to pay attention to what goes in the middle. A well-fed and healthy middle is the secret to a successful student organization.


DZ: In Chapter Two, you discuss how the middle third are jugglers, weighing and making decisions based upon their multiple priorities. This is often a quality we think of in student leaders, or top third. Can you share why you believe this is more of a middle third characteristic?

T.J.: Everyone assumes that the best jugglers are the top-third student leaders. They seem so busy, they must be juggling! And, many top-third student leaders do an awesome job finding balance. But I would suggest that the majority of top-third leaders are not in balance. Their leadership role (or roles) suck up most of their energy. We demand a lot from our top-third student leaders. Many sorority chapter presidents have unhealthy stress levels, a lack of sleep, an inability to maintain romantic relationships, and a tendency to overcommit. Just because someone is highly productive, doesn't mean they are a healthy juggler. This is why so many top-third leaders complete their leadership role and then go through a huge decompression period after. Middle-third members are more conservative when it comes to piling on extra commitments and responsibilities that can throw them off balance. They see the top-third members stressing out. Whether they do a good job of juggling or not, middle third members are more aware (or afraid) of the demands of being a top-third student leader, and therefore choose a less stressful supportive role.

DZ: You share multiple motivational examples in this book. Do you have a favorite? If so, why?

T.J.: I've long been on record opposing the madness of mandatory events. I believe making dozens of events mandatory is lazy leadership. Instead of making events meaningful and interesting, we just make them mandatory. I honestly believe that sorority chapters would foster better sisterhood, mental health and happiness if they eliminated almost all of their mandatory events, pared down their calendars by at least 50-percent, and made sorority membership less grueling for the average member. But, events are made mandatory by top-third members who would likely be at most things anyway. They figure if they have to be there, everyone has to. That's destructive. The average middle-third member would love to spend 2-3 nights a week doing sorority, and the rest of the week doing other things, like studying, spending time with their special person, being involved in other campus organizations, or just relaxing. When did being a sorority member become a full-time job?

DZ: We were really struck by the quote, “The idea that every member of an organization will be equally committed and engaged is a fantasy.” How has this idea affected your work with college students?

T.J.: Every participant comes to a situation with a different level of buy-in. Yet, we tend to only value those who are excited, ever-present, and fully bought-in – the ones who make us feel good with their commitment and energy toward our shared goal. Yes, sometimes something magical happens, and most everyone is highly committed. You see that in new chapters working toward a charter or in start up companies flush with cash and new employees, for example. But, in most chapters, you have members at different levels of engagement. I just don't think it's productive for a chapter officer to assume that every member's engagement can be demanded or expected. That sister who loves intramurals might really dislike ritual. The sister who truly enjoys the social events might hate the meetings. They aren't bad members for having preferences. These women can contribute in highly meaningful ways. But, to expect a sister to get completely pumped about everything your chapter does is unrealistic, and to berate and fine her for not loving every single activity is harmful to morale. Meet people where they are, encourage them to participate in as many things as possible, but give them some freedom to choose their own adventure.


DZ: You have now been a professional speaker within the college market for 20 years. What would be your biggest piece of advice to today’s college student?

T.J.: When I was in college, there was so much pressure to begin your adult life on graduation day. That has changed a lot. So many college students feel like "real life" doesn't begin until sometime after age 30. I'm sort of jealous of that. I was in a big hurry to change the world before my 25th birthday, and I didn't take enough time to explore all the possibilities in front of me. I feel that being a member of a fraternity or sorority needs to be a large, wonderful commitment – full of reward and enjoyment. But, for heaven's sake... don't miss out on the travel abroad experience, or signing up for that other campus organization, or participating in that service activity because your chapter sucks all your energy. Life is a buffet. Don't fill up on the first item. Taste everything. Have fun.


Motivating the Middle: Fighting Apathy in College Student Organizations is available at: http://www.amazon.com/Motivating-Middle-Fighting-College-Organizations/dp/1604946903.

For more information on T.J. Sullivan or CAMPUSPEAK, please visit:

www.tjsullivan.com
www.twitter.com/TJatCAMPUSPEAK
www.facebook.com/tjsullivanblog
www.campuspeak.com

GML and FHM Awards Submission Deadline Jan 10

Delta Zeta's two highest collegiate awards, the Grace Mason Lundy and Florence Hood Miner Awards, submission deadline is fast approaching on January 10, 2012.

The Grace Mason Lundy Award is given to members of Delta Zeta who are in their senior year and demonstrate outstanding loyalty and service to Delta Zeta. They uphold the high standards of Delta Zeta with enthusiasm and pride. They have made a significant difference in their chapters’ success and may or may not be campus leaders, but internal leaders. Service to Delta Zeta is an important factor. GML Award winners are ones who will continue their involvement with Delta Zeta as alumnae and they set the standard for all Delta Zeta collegians. Jamie Hammill, Beta Delta ‘80 (South Carolina) and Past National Officer says, "I was truly honored to be nominated for the GML award by my Beta Delta sisters. My collegiate years in Delta Zeta taught and inspired me to be a leader, and I proudly gave back and served my chapter in as many ways as possible. Even now, these valuable lessons and experiences carry over into my personal and professional life – and I still feel that close sense of connection to Delta Zeta."

The Florence Hood Miner Award is given to members of Delta Zeta who are in their junior year and have made contributions to their college, chapter and Delta Zeta through outstanding leadership on the campus while maintaining high academic standards. Ellen Lassiter, Xi Upsilon '02 (Northeastern) was a recipient of both the FHM and GML awards. She says, "As a recipient of the Florence Hood Miner and Grace Mason Lundy awards, it is an honor to be a part of that very special group. I can only hope that my service to the sorority would make these two women proud. Their example of lifetime commitment should be the aim of every Delta Zeta."

 Do you know a Delta Zeta in your chapter that is worthy of nomination? Download the applications and nomination forms below and let us know-
Florence Hood Miner Application
Florence Hood Miner Recommendation
Grace Mason Lundy Application
Grace Mason Lundy Recommendation

Winter Tips from MJ Insurance

Delta Zeta’s insurance company, MJ Insurance’s Sorority Division, provides today’s blog post on winter house reminders and other safety tips. You can view their original newsletter here and always contact them at www.mjsorority.com or follow them on Twitter at @mjsorority.

Cold Weather Safety Reminders

Essential measures to minimize the risk of a freeze or water damage loss

• Make sure all hoses are removed from exterior water spigots/faucets
• Keep furnace on and thermostat set at or above 68 degrees
• Drain water lines in lawn sprinkler system where appropriate
• Inspect windows and repair all broken glass
• Place additional insulation on exterior walls and windows
• Insulate exterior doors appropriately, and assure all close and latch completely
• Attach and secure downspouts with extension from foundation, not draining onto the driveway, sidewalks, or patios and fully displace water from walking areas

During periods of extreme colder temperatures

• Leave the doors to cabinets that contain water lines open, this will allow heat to enter the area and help prevent freeze
• Open the indoor faucets slightly to allow water to trickle as moving water does not freeze as easily

Additional safety measures during colder months
Clear all necessary snow and ice from sidewalks, fire escapes, and walkways which may result in a slip and fall hazard.

Winter Safety Tips
The most common types of injuries sustained by workers during the winter months are slips, trips and falls due to snowy or icy conditions in and around the workplace. Here are some ways to protect yourself:
• Wear slip-resistant, insulated footwear and mittens instead of gloves.
• If you can't avoid walking on snow or ice, walk like a penguin. Take short, shuffling steps and walk as flatfooted as possible.
• Avoid walking too fast, running, quickly changing direction or coming to a sudden stop on slippery surfaces.
• Avoid horseplay or other distractions.
• Avoid carrying materials that obstruct vision.
• Keep hands out of pockets while walking to protect yourself if you fall.
• Be extra careful on ladders, maintenance stands and stairways.
• Do not wear sunglasses in low-light areas.
• Use handrails at all times.

Excerpted from Pinnacol Assurance (www.pinnacol.com)

Behind the Scenes with The LAMP of Delta Zeta

In today’s online world, the death of print is often lamented, but has yet to come to fruition.

A recent article in UMagazinology, a blog published by the staffs of Johns Hopkins Magazine and the Alumni Magazine Consortium which has news and observations about the university magazine, says, “A magazine on a computer, electronic reader, or smartphone is little more than text. As much regard as I have for text, I think a magazine done right is a magazine crafted by people who understand that a good periodical is an arresting object that people want as an object because it has the capacity to offer so much more than mere ‘content.’ That most of us toss a magazine when we're done reading it doesn't diminish its power while we have it in our hands. That, I believe, is why magazines continue to thrive.”

The LAMP of Delta Zeta, begun in 1910, is just such an example. With an initial subscriber base of 200 readers, the magazine is sent to more than 100,000 subscribers today. Another 2,600 subscribers receive the magazine online. While some Greek organizations have done away with their print magazine and offer only an online version (in light of today’s economy), Delta Zeta gives our readers a choice. If you would like to read The LAMP online to help the Sorority to go green, just email us at GreenLAMP@dzshq.com. You receive an email alert when the next issue is online. If you want to continue to receive The LAMP in its hard copy format, mailed to you three times a year, you need not do anything.

Behind the scenes, a strategic plan for each biennium’s issues is done in advance and approved by The LAMP Committee (an editorial committee appointed by the National President and made up of present and past National Officers, one Alumnae Chapter LAMP Editor and one College Chapter LAMP Editor) and by National Council. Because of our publication schedule, we work three months in advance of each issue. In the meantime, chapter news and member news is also posted to the national website and to the LAMP Twitter and Facebook pages, which helps publicize more news in a more timely manner prior to when it will be published in The LAMP.

Because all alumnae receive a lifetime subscription to The LAMP at no additional cost to them, budget is always an important matter in the publication of the magazine. The best way to contain the costs involved in printing and mailing the magazine is to limit the number of pages, but we know that it is important to provide an outlet for alumnae and collegiate news and information, and the national website and social media serve that purpose while reserving space in The LAMP for news of national scope.

The magazine is also sent to other Greek organizations and to the college or university president and the Director of Greek/Student Affairs on each campus where Delta Zeta has a chapter. We encourage alumnae to share personal news of local interest with your Alumnae Public Relations Chairman on your Alumnae Area Team or your local alumnae chapter (this includes engagement, marriages and births) which we do not have space to publish in The LAMP.

We welcome your submissions at any time, whether you are a collegiate or alumnae chapter, chapter association or a member-at-large. Submissions to The LAMP can be made via email to LAMP@dzshq.com, online using the Submit News form or snail mail to LAMP Editor, 202 E. Church St., Oxford, OH 45056. And don't forget to send your photos to LAMP@dzshq.com. See the photo criteria here. We encourage everyone to submit news to us as it happens. Here are some general deadlines for the LAMP publication schedule:

Issue 1............................................ Send submissions by February 10

Issue 2 .......................................... Send submissions by June 10

Issue 3.................................. ........ Send submissions by October 10

We will look forward to receiving your news and hope you continue to look forward to receiving The LAMP!

Updating Your Chapter’s Roster

Each semester/quarter, the Chapter Secretary or Treasurer is required to update the chapter’s roster in Chapter Inc. with those members who will be or have graduated that term or those that have left school. These actions are the only way that members are removed from your roster in Billhighway, which also removes them from the Delta Zeta billing cycle. If you do not update your roster, your chapter will continue to be billed for the members. All graduating seniors and members who are leaving school should be removed from your roster by December 30, 2011.

To update your Chapter Inc. roster, access the site via the pink container on your Metro page. Once in Chapter Inc., select the Membership menu > Actions > Manage Members. The first page provides you the instructions you need to be aware of while completing the action. Please click continue to move to the second step. The second page of the action provides a list of your chapter members. Select the members who you are removing from your roster by clicking the box next to their name. Then click continue to move to the additional information page. On the additional information page, you will select “member graduates” or “left school” from the drop-down menu, and put the effective date of the membership change for each member. The date defaults to the day you are entering the action. Click continue to move to the validation page where you will review your changes and electronically sign the action form. The last step is the receipt page which confirms the change has been sent to National Headquarters. All membership changes take up to an hour to appear on Chapter Inc.

To review the action itself, you can download the Membership Actions Guide on DZ Metro here or you can view a video that will walk you through the steps here. If you have questions on the Manage Members Action on Chapter Inc., please contact technical support at ChapterInc@dzshq.com.

Understanding and Appreciating Religious Diversity During the Holiday Season and Beyond

As each day in December brings us closer to Christmas and Hannukah, religious celebrations for the two of the largest religions in North America, Christianity and Judiasm, many individuals take the opportunity to reflect upon their faith. It also gives Delta Zeta chapter leaders the opportunity to reflect on how religion may impact their work as a leader.   

  

To first begin to understand how religion can affect your role as a Delta Zeta leader, it is important to be aware of some of the world’s major religious beliefs, including non-belief. Below is a brief overview of some of the world’s major religions. This is by no means an exhaustive list or explanation. 

  

• Athiesm – Athiesm is characterized by the absence of belief in a God or other spiritual being. Athiests believe that humans can define their own morality without a God or religious text. Athiesm has a strong tie to several other beliefs including Humanism, Rationalism, and Secularism.
• Buddhism – Buddhism originated from Siddhartha Gautama's journey for Enlightenment and has evolved into a spiritual tradition that emphasizes personal spiritual development. The interconnectivity of all life and necessity for compassion is stressed.
• Christianity – Christianity is the world’s largest religion and includes such faiths as Catholicism, Methodist, Pentacostalism, and Quakerism. Christians believe that there is only one God and that Jesus Christ is the son of God. Christians believe that God sent Jesus to earth to save humanity. The Bible is the central religious book.
• Hinduism – Hinduism is the religion of the majority of the people of India and Nepal. Contrary to most other religions, Hinduism does not have a single common set of teachings nor a single founder. For that reason Hinduism is often thought of as a way of life or combination of religions. Hindus believe in a life cycle governed by Karma.
• Islam – Islam is the second largest religion in the world and its followers are called Muslims. Muslims believe in one God and that God sent several prophets to teach how to live his law including Jesus, Moses, Abraham, and the final prophet, Mohammad. The Arabic word for God is Allah. The Qur’an is the central religious book.
• Judaism – Judaism was founded by Moses and is one of the oldest monotheistic religions. Jews believe in one God with whom they share a covenant. Judaism believes that Jews are God’s chosen people and that in appreciation for all the good that God has done in their lives, they should live at all times as an example of his holiness. The Torah is the central religious book.

Information gathered from http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/

How does this impact me as a Delta Zeta leader?

• Chapter calendar – When planning your chapter calendar for the semester, are you considering religious holidays? When planning events, are you considering if the theme is appropriate for your chapter members? If you are partnering with a different fraternity/sorority or other student organization, are you aware of religious holidays which may impact their calendar? While you may not be able to accommodate all chapter members, an awareness of and sensitivity to all religious holidays/seasons is appreciated. Keep in mind that religious holidays occur year round and not just during the winter season.
• Suite/House Management – If your chapter has a suite or chapter structure (house), do you consider the religions of your members in its management? Items to consider dietary restrictions and decorations during the holiday season.

Need more information? Consider one of the following:

• Reach out to the various student organizations on your campus.
• Visit your college/university’s religious life office.
• The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has several resources on different religions available on their website http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/. These include interfaith calendars and overviews of many religions containing history, beliefs, symbols, texts, etc.
• Explore BBC’s television program “Around the World in 80 Faiths,” available on You Tube. http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=around+the+world+in+80+faiths&aq=f
• Explore how religion is being discussed in the news. Examples include: http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/, http://www.npr.org/sections/religion/, http://www.foxnews.com/us/religion/index.html.
• Finally, talk to your sisters and fellow students. While religious belief, or the lack of, may be a difficult subject for some to approach, seeking understanding is always appreciated.

Preparing for Finals. Don’t Study Hard, Study Smart!

Guest Blogger – Carolee Followill, National Academics Chairman

You've gone to class, taken notes, learned all kinds of interesting things and you're almost finished. Now is the time to prioritize your schedule and efforts to achieve your best outcome. You may have several tests and projects due in the next few weeks. Use your time wisely to prepare. Here are some tips to help maximize your success in studying.  

Look at your class syllabi to check for pertinent information. Be sure the dates, times and locations of your finals are correct and make sure to list in your planner.

Study early and often, start at least a few weeks out. Don't wait until the last minute! Prioritize what you need to study and when. Some finals carry more weight than others, some subjects are easier for you than others and some subjects may need more effort in order to improve your grade. Take these things into consideration as you schedule your time. 

Gather and organize all materials, notes, handouts, texts and assignments from class. Review your old tests, finding the answers to any questions you missed in the past. Answer study questions in the textbook. Try writing in black ink and highlighting in yellow. Studies have shown yellow and red are stimulating colors and may help you remember what you have read. Focus on concepts, definitions and formulas you think may be on the test.

Know what format the exam will take. Is it comprehensive or not, discussion questions, short answer or multiple choice?  Does it cover lectures only? Many people study too much of the wrong information. If you've been to class and listened to the professor you should be able to anticipate what's going to be on the final.

Take advantage of study sessions offered by your professor. Study with a group, ask each other questions and talk about the important points. If you have questions, don't be afraid to talk to your professor. 

As you head into your finals, be sure to continue to eat a balanced diet and get plenty of rest and exercise. Feel like you've looked at the same information a hundred times and you just can't think anymore? It's time to take a break, in fact you should take a short break every hour or two. Walk around the block, get some fresh air, do something different. It is OK, and perhaps preferable, to study more than one subject in a study session. The change of material will refresh your mind. Never stay up all night cramming for a final, get at least several hours of sleep.

On the day of the exam, be sure you are prepared. Do you have pens, pencils, calculators and any needed supplies?  Be sure you have extras. Get to the exam location early and look over your notes one last time. Have a positive attitude. If you think you will do well, you are more likely to succeed.

 

Read the directions first! You don't have to go through the test from beginning to end. Go through the test and answer everything you're well prepared for and can do quickly and easily. Then you can turn your attention to the questions and problems that you really need to think about. Read each question carefully. Stay calm, pace yourself and take deep breaths to help yourself remember. When you are taking your test and don't know an answer, skip it and come back later; you may be surprised to find the answer later in the test. If you are not sure about an answer, go with your first thought, it is usually correct. If you don't know a multiple choice answer, delete those choices you know are incorrect. Always answer any bonus questions. Answer all questions as completely as you can. Watch your time and check your answers before turning in your exam

Everyone learns differently, so do what is most effective for you. Don't study hard, study smart!

Visit the following sites for additional resources:

www.makingcollegecount.com

www.academictips.org

http://www.back2college.com/library/academics.htm

Campus View - A few pointers to tweak your study habits http://www.collegeview.com/articles/CV/campuslife/youre_not_in_hs.html

How to take on College Studying http://www.collegeboard.com/student/plan/college-success/961.html

Academic Excellence  http://www.prenhall.com/success/StudySkl/index.html

Academic Success Videos  http://www.dartmouth.edu/~acskills/videos/index.html

Success in College http://speakerjimmy.wordpress.com/blog/

Health for College Women http://www.youngwomenshealth.org/college101.html

How to Study http://www.how-to-study.com

Steps for Writing a Research Paper http://www.back2college.com/writingresearchpaper.htm

Preparing for Officer Transition

Guest Bloggers - Sarah Cohen and Christina Ferris, Educational Leadership Consultants

Officer transition is no doubt an exciting, exhilarating and thrilling time. You made it through the entire nominating, slating and election process and now see a world of possibilities before you and your chapter with your new position. You have more ideas than you know what to do with and you already know exactly which awards you are eligible to win for your chapter. While your enthusiasm is the kind that Delta Zeta likes to see in someone in an executive board or committee chair position, you may need to slow down just a bit and remember there is one more big step between you and your eternal Delta Zeta glory: officer training. You may have been dreaming of the sorority presidency since the moment you walked through the doors or had the makings of recruitment chair greatness in your blood; however, without the proper transitioning and training, all that talent, promise, passion and drive could go to waste.

Training is a complex process. You need to bond with your fellow officers, learn the ins and outs of your position, what resources are available to you and what is expected of you as a leader in the chapter. While many of tricks of the trade can be found on Metro, Delta Zeta’s private social network site, here are some red flags that you should look for before any official training starts with your exec board and chapter advisor.

First, do you have a manual? If not, check with your predecessor to see if she still has it or if her predecessor does. If not, you might want to get yourself a nice, three ring binder) to house the material you will be organizing in your position.

Second, is your material held in a holiday-designed Express bag from 3 seasons ago? If so, see above.

Third, think about what year you were born in. If you have a binder/manual that seems awfully full, check and see if there are any forms that predate your existence. If there are, feel free to dispose of them (by recycling them, remember Pink Goes Green!!). As a matter of fact, unless you are the treasurer, you can get rid of anything over 3 years old. 

If you’ve cleared these hurdles, great! Now it is time to take in the information that your chapter advisors, former exec members and materials have to offer. Make sure to take the time to thank the outgoing members of your executive board, you will soon understand all the time and energy they put into your Delta Zeta chapter. Appreciate your fellow executive board members, as they will be your sounding board for the next year. And most of all, enjoy the opportunity that you have been given to make change in your chapter, and relish the change that will likely take place in yourself.

Updating your chapter officers in Chapter Inc.

It is time to start thinking about updating your chapter officers as you finish elections. Delta Zeta's online reporting system, Chapter Inc., allows you to make updates as you have them in the Operations Action - Update Chapter Officers and Advisors. Updating your roster is a key piece to transitioning your officers because it gives them access to Chapter Inc. Watch the video for exactly how to complete this action. The text to the audio portion of the video follows.

After you log into Chapter Inc, scroll over the Operations tab and select Manage Chapter Officer and Advisors from the Actions tab.

The polices that you need to keep in mind when completing this action are found by clicking the blue I button.

The overview screen has the instructions you will need to complete the form. There are four steps to the process.

1. Select the positions for which you will be reporting a change.
2. Select the member that you are appointing to the position using the contact finder. 
3. Confirm your changes.  If you have made any mistakes use the "previous" option at the bottom of the screen to return to the prior page.
4. View and print your receipt that shows your requested changes have been submitted. 

Click continue to begin the process of changing your chapter officers or advisors.

On the Selection page, click the box next to the position of any officer or advisor positions you are updating. You can select more than one position to change at a time.

Click continue to move to the next step.

On the Additional Information page a list of the positions you have selected to change appear with a search link next to the position. By clicking on the link, a new screen pops up where you can search for a member to fill that position. Enter the member’s information, as much as you know, and a list of eligible members will appear. Click the box next to the member’s name and the screen will refresh and that member will be added to the screen. You will be asked to add the effective date when that member begins in that position.  

Continue to select the search link for each position you are changing. If you have a vacant position, you will choose “vacant position” in the pop up box. 

Chapter advisors are also managed in this form. Your CCD or RCD should make any advisor changes to the chapter officer roster. 

Verify your information before clicking continue at either the top or the bottom of the form.

The next screen is the Validation Step. The information you entered in the previous screen is listed for you to verify. Enter your electronic signature and date exactly as shown on the page and click the continue button to submit the information to Delta Zeta. It may take up to one hour for changes to be processed by the database.

The last page provides a summary of your transaction. We recommend printing this receipt for your chapter records.

Click go to actions to return to the task center.

To view your changes, go to Operation, Report, Chapter Officer Roster. You can view the roster in Chapter Inc. And you can choose to export the form information by Selecting a Format and selecting export.

Emotionally Intelligent Leadership and the Norma Minch Andrisek Leadership Conference

A few weeks ago we introduced the concept of Emotionally Intelligent Leadership (EIL) in a blog post. EIL emphasizes the idea that everyone has the capacity to be a leader. It is all about relationships. This central idea of Marcy Levy Shankman and Scott Allen’s book Emotionally Intelligent Leadership: A Guide for College Students fits perfectly with the Norma Minch Andrisek Leadership Conference. Mrs. Andrisek, in speaking about the creation of the Conference, which began in 1980, stated "I remember returning from our National Convention at that time and thinking, 'Wouldn't it be great to have the opportunity to get the collegians together in a less formal setting where they could interact one-on-one with National Officers and National Chairmen?' From the beginning, we thought of these as 'Leadership Conferences,' not officer training conferences.” 

 

The current curriculum for the Norma Minch Andrisek Leadership Conference (NMALC) was designed to build upon each of the three consciousnesses outlined in EIL: context, others and self. Conference participants heard from author Scott Allen, took the EIL assessment, and explored context, others and self through leadership case studies, creating a leadership journey and teamwork activities. Julie Starnes, Chapter President for the Pi Epsilon Chapter at Clemson University, shared this about what she learned through the EIL assessment at NMALC:

  

"The biggest thing I learned about my leadership capacity through the EIL assessment is that I have room to grow when it comes to the fundamental facet “consciousness of others.” I realized, with the help of this evaluation that I need to spend more time coaching others, and empathizing with them; to spend the extra time helping others enhance their skills… The EIL assessment highlights different capacities that maybe one doesn’t consider on a day-to-day basis. Some of the capacities come naturally to certain individuals, while they are a challenge to others. However, by merely making everyone aware of these different capacities, as Mr. Allen would say, these factors can be incorporated into each decision that one makes."  

 

Emotionally Intelligent Leadership emphasizes intentionality – practicing leadership with purpose. Fortunately there are several opportunities for student leaders, alumnae advisors, and all Delta Zetas to begin this intentional practice of leadership. Consider the following: 

• Document your leadership journey. On a piece of paper, use words, drawings, different colors, etc. to describe your leadership journey. Reflect upon the situations, people, and feelings that were present in each part of your journey. Consider sharing your journey with others – your fellow Executive Board members, a colleague, a close friend, etc.
• Take the EIL Assessment. They are available for purchase via: http://www.eileadership.net/literature/the-eil-library
• Check out the Emotionally Intelligent Leadership You Tube Channel. http://www.youtube.com/user/EILeadership
• As an Executive Board member or committee member, suggest that your team examine some case studies available on the EIL website: http://www.eileadership.net/eil-case-studies

On the 25th anniversary of the Conference in 2005, Mrs. Andrisek said, "The Sorority is in good hands, and I believe there are people coming along who will see to it that it remains strong - people who embrace the values that all Delta Zetas think are important.” Julie affirms that sentiment is still conveyed through the NMALC. “For the rest of my life, I will never forget reciting the Delta Zeta Creed with hundreds of women from all around the country. I may not have known them personally, but I knew what they stood for - and that we are all part of something much bigger than ourselves, our chapters, and our communities,” Starnes states.

 

Mrs. Andrisek continued, "There are so many people who have contributed in so many ways and so many people who care and who are determined to address the difficult issues. For all Delta Zetas, I don't think there is anything that can enrich and enhance the college experience like being a member of Delta Zeta. The basis is friendship, and that will never change." Or in EIL terms, it’s all about relationships.

 

 

Reporting Programs and Events on Chapter Inc.

Programs or events presented or participated in by your chapter to the chapter, fraternal or campus community should be reported using the Event form on Chapter Inc. The form can be found at Programs and Events > Actions > Notify Campus or Chapter Program or Event. The following type of events should be reported using this form: academic event, campus event, general education, health and wellness, leadership development, new member education event, risk management, social event, training events, and national programs (emergency management plan, i Have a Choice, personal website policy). Recruitment events should not be reported through this form, but rather through the Recruitment tabs.

Like other forms on Chapter Inc., there are five steps to complete this form.

Step 1 is the Overview Screen. Click the blue i button for more information. To proceed to the next screen, click continue at either the top or bottom of your screen. Step 2, Selection, asks you to select which form you would like to edit. Either select a form that you have saved previously (without validating), or select a new form by clicking On Demand. Click continue to proceed to Step 3. See screen shots below.

Enter your event details in Step 3, Event Information. Please note, you may save your progress and come back to it at any time by clicking “Save & Exit”, however until you have completed the validation step, this form will not be marked as 'Complete'.
 

Please review the information you have input on Step 4, Validation. If all the information is complete, or after you make appropriate edits, validate this form by providing your electronic signature at the bottom of the screen.

Step 5, the final step, provides a receipt of the information successfully submitted to Delta Zeta.

At any time, you may review the events that have been submitted for this academic year on Chapter Inc. by clicking Programs and Events > Reports > Current Year Campus or Chapter Program or Event.

A guide for completing this report can be found on Metro in the Chapter Inc. Tools Container > Academic and Programs Action Guide. 

Remember, for any help with Chapter Inc., contact the support team at ChapterInc@dzshq.com.

Nominations and Elections Preparation

November is election time. Not just for local, state and national political races, but this is the time of year that Delta Zeta chapters should be preparing for, or in the midst of, officer nominations and elections. According to the Delta Zeta Constitution, Article XII, Section 5, all chapter officers and chairmen are to be elected no later than March 1 each year unless there is a campus or chapter situation which would require approval by the College Chapter Director (CCD) or Regional Collegiate Director (RCD). A great resource for you when you start planning is the Nomination and Election Manual which you can find on Metro in the Chapter Officer Resources – Collegiate Resources – Manuals section.

The nomination and election procedure is often the most misunderstood aspect of chapter operations. Unlike those political races you are watching across the country, Delta Zeta uses a Nominating Committee which creates a slate of officers based on input from each academic class in the chapter. It is important before the process even begins to educate the entire chapter on the process so that every member knows what to expect. The Nomination and Election Manual states that “Dates should be scheduled early on the calendar for the selection of a Nominating Chairman and Committee, officer interviews, election of officers and their installation. Two chapter meetings need to be held in order to effectively conduct officer elections.” The entire process is also explained in the Nominations and Elections webinar which is on Metro – Chapter Officer Resources – Collegiate Resources – Webinars.

Perhaps one of the most important aspects to the entire process is to carefully review the qualifications for office and look for candidates within the chapter who exhibit the characteristics needed for each position. Officer qualifications are found in Section II of the Nominations and Elections Manual, and you should also reference your chapter’s Bylaws for more specific information. All candidates should be in good standing as defined by the Delta Zeta Constitution or the chapters’s Bylaws and have a cumulative GPA over a 2.5 for the preceding term. Candidates for Chapter President should have been an initiated member for at least a year.

All of our chapters should use this important time to choose the best leadership for the upcoming year. If you have additional questions, direct them to your CCD or RCD.

DZ Digest November Preview

DZ Digest is a monthly posting of topics for alumnae and collegiate officers of Delta Zeta. Look for November’s e-blast to hit your inboxes this week. In the meantime though, topics to look forward to will include:

  

• End of Semester Tips for Academic Chairman
• National Panhellenic Conference Updates
• National Philanthropy Month
• Philanthropy Reporting Reminder – Training Transition
• Starkey Fall 2011 Update
• Awards Nominations

 

To view DZ Digest, click here and sign into Metro.

 

If you have questions, or suggestions for future blog posts, please send them to Webmaster@dzshq.com.

 

 

The Delta Zeta Creed and Emotionally Intelligent Leadership

To the world,
I promise temperance and insight and courage,
To crusade for justice,
To seek the truth and defend it always;

To those whom my life may touch in slight measure,
May I give graciously
Of what is mine;

To my friends,
Understanding and appreciation;

To those closer ones,
Love that is ever steadfast;

To my mind,
Growth;

To myself,
Faith
That I may walk truly
In the light of the Flame.

-- Dorothy Mumford Williams, Alpha Zeta (Adelphi University), 1939

 

The Delta Zeta Creed is beautiful…the words and phrasing floating so effortlessly off the tongue. But it also sneaks up on you unexpectedly, providing insight and guidance at the exact moments you need it. Even for those who say it every day, reciting the Creed in different situations brings new understanding and unique emotions. Or maybe the new understanding came as your life has evolved, whether that be college graduation, an impactful volunteer role, or helping a friend through a difficult situation. How did you, or do you think you will feel, when you say the Creed with women from a different chapter, when you share with non-Delta Zetas, and when you recite the Creed at National Convention?

 

As educators, the Creed has also afforded Delta Zeta the opportunity to frame and apply leadership concepts to the Delta Zeta experience. At the Norma Minch Andrisek Leadership Conference (NMALC), Delta Zeta introduced the concept of Emotionally Intelligent Leadership to the nearly 400 emerging leaders in attendance. Emotionally Intelligent Leadership, theorized by Marcy Levy Shankman and Scott Allen, asserts that everyone has the capacity to be a leader whether or not they have a formal officer role. Emotionally Intelligent Leadership (EIL) can be broken down into three overall areas, each of which is further divided into capacities:

 

• Consciousness of Context – intentional study or awareness of the environment and how that interacts with one’s success as a leader
• Consciousness of Others – understanding that leadership is about relationships and one’s ability to work with others
• Consciousness of Self – awareness of one’s own goals, values, priorities, strengths, etc. increases one’s effectiveness as a leader

 

These three consciousnesses can be explored further through what we as Delta Zetas pledge to do in our daily lives. As we look at context, we can draw analogies between group saavy and insight, truth, and courage. Those who our lives touch in slight measure, friends and closer ones all speak to the importance of others. To our minds we promise growth and to ourselves faith, all of which align with an awareness of self.

 

Check back on this blog in a few weeks for more information on how the principles of Emotionally Intelligent Leadership were included at NMALC and how they can be implemented into your daily life.

 

For more information on Emotionally Intelligent Leadership, visit http://www.eileadership.net/.

Reporting Your i Have a Choice Event on Chapter Inc.

Congratulations on completing a successful i Have a Choice event! Events organized by Delta Zeta’s across the country help educate sisters and fellow college students on the dangers of alcohol abuse and help empower them to make informed decisions. As National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week is coming to a close, it is time to report to Delta Zeta Headquarters about the event(s) you held through Chapter Inc, our online reporting system. 

 

To accurately report on your event in Chapter Inc. you will need the following information:

• Event Name
• Event Type (i Have a Choice)
• Event Date
• Event Description
• Event Attendance
• Event Notes

 

To begin your report, while logged into Chapter Inc., click Programs and Events > Actions > Notify Campus or Chapter Program or Event (click picture to enlarge).

 

 

This form created on demand, so on the Selection step (the second step), click to create a new form and continue (click picture to enlarge).

 

 

On the Enter Information step (third step), you will input your specific event information (click picture to enlarge).

 

 

After you have validated the information you submitted in the fourth step, you will receive a receipt. We suggest you print your receipt for your chapter records.

 

If you need any assistance in reporting your event, please contact the Chapter Inc. Support Team at chapterinc@dzshq.com.

 

 

Delta Zeta supports National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week through i Have a Choice Program

This week Delta Zeta joins thousands of students, faculty, and staff of colleges and universities in observance of National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week (NCAAW). Delta Zeta’s i Have a Choice Program and NCAAW seek to educate college-age students about the dangers of alcohol abuse, inspiring them to examine their lifestyles and make informed decisions regarding these substances. High-risk drinking and its consequences affect hundreds of thousands of students every year. College Drinking: Changing the Culture shared the following facts:

• Death: 1,825 college students between the ages of 18 and 24 die from alcohol-related unintentional injuries, including motor vehicle crashes (Hingson et al., 2009).
• Injury: 599,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 are unintentionally injured under the influence of alcohol (Hingson et al., 2009).
• Assault: 696,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 are assaulted by another student who has been drinking (Hingson et al., 2009).
• Sexual Abuse: 97,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 are victims of alcohol-related sexual assault or date rape (Hingson et al., 2009).
• Unsafe Sex: 400,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 had unprotected sex and more than 100,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 report having been too intoxicated to know if they consented to having sex (Hingson et al., 2002).
• Academic Problems: About 25 percent of college students report academic consequences of their drinking including missing class, falling behind, doing poorly on exams or papers, and receiving lower grades overall (Engs et al., 1996; Presley et al., 1996a, 1996b; Wechsler et al., 2002).
• Health Problems/Suicide Attempts: More than 150,000 students develop an alcohol-related health problem (Hingson et al., 2002), and between 1.2 and 1.5 percent of students indicate that they tried to commit suicide within the past year due to drinking or drug use (Presley et al., 1998).
• Drunk Driving: 3,360,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 drive under the influence of alcohol (Hingson et al., 2009).
• Property Damage: More than 25 percent of administrators from schools with relatively low drinking levels and over 50 percent from schools with high drinking levels say their campuses have a "moderate" or "major" problem with alcohol-related property damage (Wechsler et al., 1995).
• Alcohol Abuse and Dependence: 31 percent of college students met criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol abuse and 6 percent for a diagnosis of alcohol dependence in the past 12 months, according to questionnaire-based self-reports about their drinking (Knight et al., 2002).

(Text from http://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/StatsSummaries/snapshot.aspx)

 

 

Join Delta Zeta this week in our observance of i Have a Choice and National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week and educate yourself, your family and your friends on the dangers of alcohol abuse. Share how you are participating in Delta Zeta’s i Have a Choice Program and National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week through Facebook and Twitter, using the hashtags #DeltaZeta and #NCAAW.

Chapter Inc. Procedures for Initiation

It’s the middle of October and many of our chapters are planning for Homecoming, alumnae weekends, midterms…and initiation. Initiation is a special time for all Delta Zetas – current collegiate members, alumnae, and especially those new members choosing to formally join our sisterhood. While this time is typically filled with excitement, for some chapter officers it can also cause nervousness to make sure that everything is done correctly. To make sure that everything runs smoothly, there are two processes in Chapter Inc. to keep in mind: request to initiate and changing new members’ membership type to initiate.

 

 

Request to Initiate

 

At least two weeks prior to Initiation, you must complete the Request to Initiate new members via Chapter Inc. To do this, please follow the below steps. If you are completing a change on multiple members, we require processing groups of 10 or less members at a time. It is important to note that member numbers will automatically be assigned by the system when you complete the Request to Initiate action. Therefore, please select your groups of Request to Initiate in alphabetical order.

 

• In Metro, click Membership > Actions > Manage Members
• Select the new members you wish to initiate via the checkbox next to their name and click continue
• On the Additional Info Step, select the action “New Member Requests to Initiate” (see picture below)
• Confirm all your changes on the Validation Step
• Save and print a copy of the receipt for your records

 

If all requirements for a new member’s initiation have been met, initiation permits will be granted.

 

 

Changing New Members to Initiates

 

Within 48 hours following initiation, chapters must complete the Initiate Step in Chapter Inc. This will change the new initiates’ status from NEW MEMBER to INITIATE and will allow the Vice President to order badges. You will follow the process outlined above for Request to Initiate. In the Additional Info Step, now an option to initiate a member is visible (see picture below).

 

 

 

For more information on Lamplighting, initiation, and required procedures, we encourage you to review the memos available on Metro in the September and October editions of DZ Digest. And always remember that Delta Zeta volunteers and staff are here to help! Please email ChapterInc@dzshq.com with any questions about the request to initiate process and initiation membership changes.