diversity equity and inclusion

The DEI Committee

The DEI Committee focuses on high-level tasks in the DEI space, collaborates with the National Council to execute the strategic direction of the organization, and offers expertise in the DEI space to support implementation.

The DEI Committee is a result of the work of the most recent Sorority Advisory Committee, a think-tank and research body. The most recent iteration of the Sorority Advisory Committee was focused on the research of BIPOC members’ experiences and examination of the Sorority’s opportunities for growth in diversity, equity, and inclusion. The DEI Committee is focused on implementation.

Our Timeline

  • October 1, 2024 – Committee Applications Launched
  • October 9, 2024 – DEI Committee Info Session (Register here)
  • October 15, 2024 – Applications Due
  • Early November – DEI Committee Appointed
  • On or around November 15 – Kick-off Meeting Hosted

Learn more about service on this committee

DEI Committee Informational Session
Wednesday, October 9, at 8 p.m. ET

Any member considering applying to volunteer on the DEI Committee is strongly encouraged to attend this informational webinar. You’ll gain insight into the committee’s responsibilities, the scope of work, and the timeline. You’ll also learn more about the qualities and competencies of a successful candidate.

Sign up for the Webinar

The session, hosted on Zoom, is hosted by Tsai-Ann Yawching, National Vice President and ex-officio member of the DEI Committee. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Competencies of a Successful DEI Committee Member

These are the competencies that a successful DEI Committee member possesses and actively practices:

  • Analytical is defined as having the ability to use details when examining research and using methodical reasoning to create an evident truth of meaning.
  • Curiosity is defined as having the desire to gain new knowledge and being inquisitive about how ideas evolve and are related to the mission and goals.
  • Intrapersonal is defined as treating others with graciousness and respect, actively listening, and considering and responding appropriately to the needs and feelings of committee members at all times.
  • Resourceful is defined as having the ability to find efficient ways to overcome difficulties and having a sense of independence in order to see a task through to completion.
  • Ambitious is defined as having a desire to achieve a particular goal and having pride in your work and accomplishments.

Meet the Committee

Linnea Beckstrom Epsilon Xi 2023/Gustavus Adolphus

Linnea is a rising senior with a triple major in political science, gender and women sexuality studies, and peace justice and conflict studies. She is the Vice President of Community Relations for her chapter. Additionally, she is minoring in religion. Linnea said, “I am so excited to be a part of this committee. I’m looking forward to not only sharing my thoughts but learning a lot in the process!”

Jessica Forestiere Alpha Lambda 2002/Radford

Jessica holds a bachelor’s in history and social science, a master’s in educational leadership and supervision, and is currently pursuing an educational specialist degree in curriculum and instruction at the University of Virginia. Professionally, she is a high school teacher, focused on social studies and English. Jessica said, “I am deeply committed to fostering inclusive, equitable spaces where every individual feels valued and supported. Teaching allows me to inspire and guide the next generation, while my involvement with the DEI Committee gives me the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, systemic change.”

Megan Kerns Psi 2010/James Madison

Megan has a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and currently serves as both the Member Development Advisor and Organization Development Advisor for the Psi Chapter at James Madison University. This is Megan’s second term on the DEI Committee. Outside of work and AΣΤ commitments, Megan enjoys staying up to date with the latest fashion trends, advocating for mental health, and working out, especially boxing and running.

Nina Quist Epsilon Phi 2016/Winona State

Nina has a bachelor’s in finance with a double major in Spanish. Nina currently works as an Associate Business Analyst for Ecolab, has volunteered as an advisor for the Epsilon Phi Chapter at Winona State University, led the Minneapolis Alumnae Interest Group, and been a member of the Sorority Advisory Committee. Nina said, “In college, I worked for my school’s Inclusion and Diversity office and received a scholarship for many years through their office. DEI is an area I am extremely passionate about. I am so excited to be on this committee, help make positive changes in the organization, and ensure all PNMs have access to our Sisterhood.”

Sanjana Subramanyam Delta Sigma 2022/St. Joseph’s

Sanjana is currently a senior studying biomedical sciences on the pre-med track. She previously served as the Delta Sigma Chapter’s Vice President of Finance. Outside of Alpha Sigma Tau and school, Sanjana loves reading, baking, and exploring new places. She said, “I am excited to serve on the DEI Committee and contribute to Alpha Sigma Tau beyond my time as a collegian!”

Leigha West Phi 2021/Southeastern Louisiana

Leigha has a bachelor’s in psychology and currently works as an Outreach Specialist for Southeastern Louisiana University’s Educational Talent Search program, which prepares first-generation and low-income students for post-secondary education. She said, “I was inspired by LeeAnn Hovis, who served as a National Vice President from 2022-2024, to get involved with the Sorority at a National level. LeeAnn often reminded me that the organization was much bigger than our chapter. I have always valued inclusion and advocacy, and I knew the DEI Committee was the perfect place for me.”

Tsai-Ann Yawching Gamma Tau 2013/Lebanon Valley Ex-Officio

Tsai-Ann Yawching is currently serving her second term as a National Vice President and Ex-Officio for the DEI Committee. She works in alumni engagement at the University of Washington, Bothell. Previously, Tsai-Ann has served as an advisor to the Gamma Tau Chapter at Lebanon Valley University and as a member of the Sorority Advisory Committee. She said, “I’m really looking forward to being a part of the movement that continues to push Alpha Sigma Tau forward to a more belonging and inclusive environment for all women.”

DEI Committee Charge Description

The charge of the DEI committee will focus on programming, trends, and initiatives, and AΣΤ operational items:

1. Advise the National Council on programming and resources that support the integration of DEI practices across the organization. 

  • Make a recommendation for how we teach our members, officers, and advisors about our Philosophy on Inclusive Learning Environments and how to integrate that philosophy into our chapter culture.
  • Conduct a bi-annual audit of the DEI/Anti-Racism Resource Library with the goal of curating resources to ensure they are relevant and fresh and segmented resources by audience. 
  • Draft internal resources for individual collegiate members and officers to guide inclusive thinking practices centered on the key questions to ask as they execute their various duties.
  • Using the Crucial Conversations methodology, develop a resource for these topics:
    • Officer/Advisor thinking framework – how do I invite and accept feedback? How do I welcome hard feedback? Who is not represented at the table but should be? What perspectives are we not considering? 
    • Help members guide conversations around difficult social topics.
    • Easy conversation starters and prompts around inclusion and belonging.
    • How to have a conversation with a Sister who makes an inappropriate comment or statement.

2. Report annually to the National Council on trends and initiatives in the DEI space. 

  • Make recommendations for areas of study and/or emphasis

1. Recommend programming and resources and support integration of DEI practices into the organization:

  • Support Headquarters Staff in identifying and vetting DEI programs and training opportunities. When applicable, serve as facilitators in the vetting and early implementation of programs and training.
  • Review and make recommendations for integrating DEI concepts into existing resources and programming
  • Identify, vet and recommend resources for the DEI Resource Library, programs, and speakers/educators
  • Assist in identifying gaps and opportunities for additional DEI resources and programming
  • Identify areas, programs, and roles across Alpha Sigma Tau to incorporate DEI, ensuring the work is horizontally and vertically integrated and permeates the organization.

2. Advise the National Council with respect to trends and initiatives in the DEI space:

  • Make recommendations for common language/terminology in AΣΤ (i.e. “DEI” vs “IDE” vs “DEI + Access, Belonging, etc.”; Definition of “cultural competence”)
  • Make recommendations for more inclusive policies, practices, and procedures
  • Make recommendations for future areas of study/emphasis
  • Track and analyze DEI efforts in Higher Education

3. Complete AΣΤ chapter operational items:

  • Define and develop best practices for collegiate chapter distribution of DEI responsibility.
  • Partner with the National Headquarters Staff to collect and analyze demographic information to better understand the makeup of chapters and the organization overall

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