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

July 12, 2022 – Committee Applications Launched
July 24, 2022– Applications Due
Early August – DEI Committee Appointed
September 1, 2022 – Kick-off Meeting Hosted

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.

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Meet the Committee

Sofia Almanzan

Sofia Almanzan (Beta Theta 2020/St. Mary’s) is currently a senior studying political science. She is the Vice President of Operations for her chapter and the Panhellenic President.

Kristina Moron Eaton

Kristina Moron Eaton (Gamma Delta 2000/UMass Dartmouth) currently works as the Supplier Diversity Manager for the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. In this role, she coordinates procurement opportunities for minority, women, veteran, and LGBTQ-owned businesses.

Leah Evans

Leah Evans (Alpha Psi 2019/Northern Iowa) is attending Miami University to obtain her master’s degree in student affairs and higher education. She is passionate about higher education, leadership, and student success.

Megan Kerns

Megan Kerns (Psi 2010/James Madison) is a merchandising leader for Aerie and received a B.S. in Hospitality Management. She currently serves as the Membership Development and Organization Development Advisor for the Psi Chapter.

Courtney Klein

Courtney Klein (Alpha Psi 2016/Northern Iowa) is currently in government relations, working for a defense and aerospace company. She was a founding member of her chapter and previously served on the Governing Documents Committee.

Sanzida Sultana

Sanzida “Sanzi” Sultana (Epsilon Iota 2020/NYIT) is a senior studying computer science with a minor in entrepreneurship and technology. She is currently Chapter President and was previously Vice President of Growth and Vice President of Community Relations.

Kendall Tallmadge Tryhane

Kendall Tallmadge Tryhane (Delta Nu 2006/Beloit) is a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin. She currently works at a Native American nonprofit based in Colorado. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s in Anthropology, as well as a master’s in business administration.

Sarah Harmon Wessel

Sarah Harmon Wessel (Epsilon Gamma 2013/Georgia Southern-Armstrong) currently works as a pediatric physical therapist. She lives in Atlanta with her husband, and serves as the Member Development Advisor to the Epsilon Gamma Chapter.

Tsai-Ann Yawching, National Council Vice President

Tsai-Ann Yawching (Gamma Tau 2013/Lebanon Valley) serves as the ex-officio for this committee, as a National Council Vice President. Previously, she served on the Sorority Advisory Committee and was the Organization Development and Tau Honor Council Advisor for the Gamma Tau Chapter.

Learn more about service on this committee

DEI Committee Informational Session
Sunday, July 10, 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.

The session, hosted on Zoom, is hosted by Cassidy Nulty, Past National Vice President, and Kendall Tallmadge Tryhane and Ashley Colwell, past co-chairs of the DEI Committee. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

DEI Committee Charge Description

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

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