Finding Ways to Stay Engaged in Sisterhood

When Donalinda (Dona) Ace, Iota, first started her former job as a professor at the University of New Mexico, she found herself many miles away from the nearest Alpha Sigma Tau alumnae chapter. But, interestingly, it was that experience that kept her connected to the Sorority and to a broader Sisterhood in the Albuquerque Metropolitan Alumnae Panhellenic Association (AMAP), of which she is currently President.

“At the University of New Mexico, I observed that almost every student leader was also in a fraternity or sorority,” she recalls. “That reminded me of my experience as a collegian, where the same was true, and I was drawn to that in my new community.” So when the opportunity to be part of AMAP came up, she jumped at the chance.

In fact, the invitation to join was extended by another Alpha Sigma Tau alumna who Dona had not previously known. “She attended a different college and was a little bit older than I was, but we still had a shared bond as Alpha Sigma Taus,” she says. “The current delegate is a grad student at UNM, but we had that same bond. She attended a different college too, so it just goes to show how well the Alpha Sigma Tau Sisterhood extends across generations and chapters.”

AMAP supports the sorority community at the University of New Mexico. “We offer scholarships and opportunities to be involved,” Dona explains. “We have a lot of fun too, recently hosting a scarf painting workshop and sending candy bar bouquets to welcome everyone back at the beginning of the semester!” But, as Dona sees it, being in a fraternity or sorority means much more than opportunities to be involved with fellow members. “I’m proof that the Sorority stereotypes are wrong,” she says. “When I started college, I had some financial challenges. My chapter offered me free room and board if I worked around the chapter house. I wouldn’t have gotten through college if not for them! I was an officer too, so I learned how to be responsible and lead large groups in an effort to give back to their communities.”

So, what is Dona’s advice for collegians and alumnae who are looking to get more engaged? “If you want to meet like-minded women, get involved,” she advises. “If you are seeking to expand your professional network, want to serve your community, or would simply like to continue what was great about your collegiate experience … then get involved! Find or start an alumnae chapter near you. Call NPC and find a Panhellenic near you. The important thing is to get involved.”

To learn more about Alumnae Panhellenics, click here or email the National Panhellenic Conference at npccentral@npcwomen.org.

Click here to find an Alpha Sigma Tau alumnae chapter near you, or here to learn about starting one.