The Epsilon Alpha chapter of Alpha Phi at Ashland University received the Excellence in Chapter Development award at Alpha Phi International Fraternity’s 69th Biennial Convention.
“Within Alpha Phi there are six main values and at the convention, one chapter is recognized for showing excellence in each of the six values,” said Alpha Phi President Rachel Stockle. “Character development is the value for which we won the award.”
Stockle explained that character development within Alpha Phi is defined as always striving to be the best version of themselves and by holding each other to higher standards.
“We do this by encouraging on-campus involvement, having leadership development training, holding retreats that remind us of our values and ideals, and rituals that bind us together as a sisterhood,” she said.
Laura Kane, director of Greek life and student organizations at Ashland University, was very proud that the Alpha Phis were recognized for this award.
"It is always such wonderful news to hear when our Greek chapters at Ashland University are being recognized on a regional, national or international scale,” Kane said. “On our campus, Alpha Phi has a rich history of upholding its organizational values and has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in character development. Because of their continued commitment to their chapter values, as well as the institution's values, they are most deserving of this international honor."
More than 500 Alpha Phis and guests attended this year’s Convention in Phoenix, Ariz. Hosted by the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa, Alpha Phi sisters from across the U.S. and Canada gathered to conduct business, build leadership skills, renew friendships and celebrate the success of Alpha Phi.
Led by Director of Training, Development and Communications Denise Jung Reens (Epsilon Delta - Northern Illinois University), the event featured awards ceremonies, initiation, special Foundation events and displays, live entertainment, dynamic speakers and educational sessions.
Alpha Phi International Fraternity was founded at Syracuse University in 1872 as one of the first Greek societies for women. Alpha Phi is dedicated to promoting sisterhood, cultivating leadership, encouraging intellectual curiosity and advocating service. The organization is comprised of more than 155 collegiate chapters and more than 140 alumnae chapters throughout the United States and Canada. The Alpha Phi Foundation is the Fraternity’s philanthropic and educational partner. Through contributions from chapters, individual members and friends, the Foundation supports women’s cardiac health and other charitable and educational projects. Together, Alpha Phi International Fraternity and Foundation develop character for a lifetime.
Ashland University, ranked in the top 200 colleges and universities in U.S. News and World Report’s National Universities category for 2013, is a mid-sized, private university conveniently located a short distance from Akron, Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio. Ashland University (www.ashland.edu) values the individual student and offers a unique educational experience that combines the challenge of strong, applied academic programs with a faculty and staff who build nurturing relationships with their students.
