Dear Sisters,
This Women's History Month, I'd like us all to take a moment to reflect upon the women in our lives who have shaped us into who we are today. Collectively, these women have impacted Alpha Delta Kappa by instilling in you a love of service and a devotion to sisterhood. Some of my earliest memories of strong women include my grandmother, my mother, and my aunts. Their bond, strength, and loyalty to one another and to me shaped the direction of my life in such a positive way. As I grew older, I was surrounded by so many wonderful female role models, including teachers and coaches - many of whom will be reading this very letter. I chose to attend an all-women's college where the motto was To Be, To Know, To Do. All of these experiences have led me to the greatest profession there is - teaching - and to you, my dear sisters of Alpha Delta Kappa.
The National Women's History Alliance has announced the women's history theme for 2023 as "Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories." Do you know the story of your chapter? If not, perhaps call or email a sister who might be able to share it with you. Have you attended a conference or convention where sisters were honored or good times were shared? Perhaps you might want to attend a future event to make some Alpha Delta Kappa memories of your own to share with others. Let's keep the stories of Alpha Delta Kappa alive, not only in our hearts, but with one another, to share our rich history!
I recently had the pleasure of having lunch with International Past President Ruth Walsh and her daughter, Barb. Ruth and Barb have long been members of Connecticut Zeta. We laughed and smiled as we went through archives and albums together. Before we left, Barb shared with me a biography of one of our founders, Agnes Shipman Robertson, entitled Agnes: Her Life and Times. I'd like to end with an excerpt from this book:
My Observations of a Star
By Bernice Maher Strant
Gamma Chapter - CT Alpha Delta Kappa
"Two years later (1971) I observed our "Star" at the New York Convention. The same fine organization characterized this affair. One of the humorous episodes (to me it was such) occurred when the delegate assembly had to wait for the stage to be set for the morning meeting as well as for the arrival of the mayor's representative. The usual volume of talk rose higher and higher as we waited. Finally, Agnes could stand it no longer, and in a voice very reminiscent of a school teacher, asked us to quiet down and keep our mouths shut. Just at that moment, the gentleman representing New York City came down the aisle. As he arrived at the platform, he remarked that he felt as though he were in the schoolroom again, hearing a teacher's chiding voice."
All my love,
Charlotte Zenzick
CT State President
