FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY Today we come together to remember our Founders and to celebrate our membership in ALPHA DELTA KAPPA. It was through the vision, dedication, and actions of Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marion Southall, Marie Neal, and Hattie Poppino that the state of Missouri in 1947 issued a charter incorporating ALPHA DELTA KAPPA, allowing it to organize chapters in every state and around the globe. We honor our Founders for lighting the way to recognition of outstanding women educators. (Light 5 candles individually throughout the ceremony or have five candles lit on the table at the start.) The first candle symbolizes love – the love our Founders held for learning and for our profession. The second candle symbolizes inspiration – the inspiration which led to the founding of ALPHA DELTA KAPPA. Our Founders were women of purpose who never wavered in their desire to create our organization. The third candle symbolizes growth – the growth of ALPHA DELTA KAPPA into an international organization; an organization that at all levels – chapter, state, provincial, national, regional and international - supports altruistic projects and provides numerous scholarships. The fourth candle symbolizes honor. Our Founders created ALPHA DELTA KAPPA to honor outstanding women in education and to promote professional women educators. The fifth candle symbolizes thought – the thought and planning that went into the creation of ALPHA DELTA KAPPA. The same degree of thought and planning that went into the creation of our organization continues as it grows and changes to meet the needs of today’s women educators. LIGHT – love, inspiration, growth, honor, thought. As our Founders lit the way for the creation of ALPHA DELTA KAPPA, may we light the way for its future. 44

ALPHA DELTA KAPPA FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY

Written for Founders’ Day 2002 Arizona Pi Chapter

(Opening prayer, thought or meditation) We meet today to honor the Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa. We are celebrating the _____th year of our sorority. On August 13, 1947, the dream of Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino became a reality. This past year has brought a lot of changes to our world and though it is a time of uncertainty, our purposes have remained firm and unchanged. Thus we are here today, to celebrate the visions of our Founders, and renew a commitment to the purposes for which this organization was created. The theme for today is a “High Country Celebration of Thanks.” We have so much to be thankful for. Do you remember a song that you learned in elementary school that goes like this: Over the river and through the woods? Do you remember that song? It brings back fond memories for me. AND since we are in the woods, what better way to celebrate than to go into the woods and see how nature can make us thankful for not only our Founders but for each of us as well. Sisters, grab your sweaters for we are going on a walk through the woods. This walk shall be done in silence. Let’s use our eyes to look for squirrels, rabbits and the scenery. Let’s use our ears to hear the birds and the wind. Let’s take a whiff of the mountain air. Let’s really listen to our sisters as we honor our Founders. Prayer of the Woods Please listen ladies as this prayer, called “Prayer of the Woods,” has been used by the Portuguese for forest preservation for the past 1,000 years.

I am the heat of your hearth on the cold winter nights, the friendly shade screening you from the summer sun, and my fruits are refreshing draughts quenching your thirst as you journey on. I am the beam that holds your house, the board of your table, the bed on which you lie, and the timber that builds your boat. I am the handle of your hoe, the door of your homestead, the wood of your cradle, and the shell of your coffin.

I am the bread of kindness and the flower of beauty. “Ye who pass by, listen to my prayer: Harm me not, preserve me for bountiful living so that I can be of service to humanity.” Agnes Shipman Robertson (Point to the blue spruce and say) Sisters, this is a blue spruce. Look at it a moment. I would like to tell you why this tree reminds me of our Founder Agnes Shipman Robertson. Have you ever gone searching for a Christmas tree? If you have, you know that when you see a blue spruce, you have found the perfect tree. In a forest it stands out from the rest because of its perfect conical shape and beautiful color. If you are familiar with “True Colors” you know that if you are a “blue” you are sensitive, empathetic, loyal and enthusiastic. Agnes was all of these things and more. She knew that as women educators we needed an organization to help us get together personally, socially and professionally. She would love knowing that we are together today. The blue spruce, when it’s in a dense stand, provides thermal and hiding cover for many forest animals. As teachers we must provide a safe heaven for our students. As sisters we must stand together to keep the ideals of our sorority alive. When a spruce is decorated with tinsel and lights it is a lovely sight especially for a child. It is a promise of wonderful things to come. These lights reflect an image of Agnes who promised us wonderful things when we became members of Alpha Delta Kappa. Just as the blue spruce stands out from the rest so does Agnes Shipman Robertson. Today we honor her as an inspiration to everyone demonstrating her leadership as a Founder of Alpha Delta Kappa. Marie Neal Marie Neal, our second Founder, used the universe of knowledge for a better understanding of our multi-diverse world. Speaking of diverse, let’s look at this pine tree. This happens to be a Ponderosa Pine, but did you know that there are over 100 different species of pine trees? The pine is always green. As you know green is nature’s favorite color, symbolic of strength. Marie was a remarkably strong lady and invaluable to Alpha Delta Kappa. This tree too has a high commercial value because of the quality logs it produces. Like teachers who provide a safe heaven for students, its canopy provides shelter for wildlife. Native Americans value this particular tree. Its sap is used to coat the inside of whistles and flutes to improve tone. The roots are used to make a beautiful blue dye. The pitch from this tree is used for glue. One of Marie’s wishes was for a fraternal organization that would create a strong bond between women, an idea so very important to the founding of Alpha Delta

Kappa. Her role in the founding and management helps us to connect our world and provides the unity to hold together this sorority called Alpha Delta Kappa. Marion Southall Marion Southall served as the first national vice-president and chairman of the executive board in our early years. The quaking aspen tree shares many of her attributes. The golden color of the leaves in fall shows warmth and a steadfastness of purpose. Marion was that kind of person. Busy beavers love this tree, as the wood is light, soft and straight grained. Marion Southall was a busy beaver. It is said that she very seldom missed a meeting, was very well organized and quite creative. The aspen is valued for its aesthetic qualities in every season. The beautiful green leaves of summer turn to yellow, orange, red and gold during the fall. It is one of the taller trees in the woods always searching for light. Marion would like for all of us to become beacons of light for our students. Guiding them in the right direction. This tree seems to sing a soft song when the wind is blowing and every time we sing “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa” we should think of Marion Southall. You see her children composed this song. Aspen is one of the favorite woods for lumberjacks. When you burn aspen it crackles, bums clean and fast. This aspen, along with all of us, should salute Marion and help us to remember, “its radiant glow will ere bestow a light to all the lands.” Hattie Poppino To honor our last Founder, Hattie Poppino, I’d like you to observe the white birch tree. This tree is familiar because of its weeping, slender twigs making a mountain of foliage supported by its beautiful white bark trunk. White is symbolic of purity, honor and truth. Hattie, like the rest of our Founders, possessed these qualities. This tree never reaches commercial size but is great for firewood and makes great “hard and heavy” fence posts. Livestock can browse on it; its buds, seeds and sap are eaten by birds. Therefore its size does not take away from its importance. The last name we hear when we speak of our Founders is Hattie Poppino, but being last does not take away from her importance. Hattie was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. Her wish was to have effective communication between us, the need for never-ending communication lights the path of our sorority. Again some of the Native American tribes used the bark of this tree to build their canoes for their water journeys. Like them, Hattie started us on an incredible journey when we were initiated into Alpha Delta Kappa. We hope the journey never ends. Thank you Hattie Poppino.

Oak This morning we talked a little about an apple tree being symbolic of teachers. That is true, but another tree reminds me more of our sorority. Unfortunately, I don’t have one to show you, as you would have to walk about a mile. That tree is the mighty oak! It begins life from a tiny acorn, which grows in a big shallow cup. Our sorority was tiny at its inception. When it matures it is a venerable giant of the forest. Our sorority has grown so that we not only have chapters in every state of the union, but around the world. When you get a chance look closely at the oak tree. Each leaf comes out separately on the branch. The leaves are individual but a part of something big. As an Alpha Delta Kappa member, we can keep our individuality and still remain a part of the group. If there is a huge windstorm, the oak will remain standing while others blow down. This should be a lesson to teachers that just as the oak bends to keep from being blow down, we as teachers must be flexible. We must change with the times to keep our dear sorority up to date and to meet the needs of all members. Every fall the leaves change to red and even purple. These colors are symbolic of strength, nobility of character and love. Let us remember these qualities as we strive to accomplish our duties in Alpha Delta Kappa. Just as Johnny Tremain and the Sons of Liberty chose the oak to represent them, I chose the oak to represent our sorority. Its strength, beauty and endurance will remain a silent tribute to our Founders and each sister of Alpha Delta Kappa.

(Closing prayer, thought or meditation) Today we donated an apple tree as a symbol of life and service to our sorority. As this tree grows let is symbolize our Founders: Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino. Let this tree benefit those who will see it.

CREATING THE HEART OF TOMORROW Five heart-shaped candle holders are placed on a table. The heart-shaped candle holders are labeled with the following letters: H-E-A-R-T. A candle is placed in each candle holder. As each portion of the ceremony is read, a candle is lit.

H is for HERITAGE We light the first candle for HERITAGE. Although we focus on the future in creating the heart of tomorrow, the past provides the continued pulse. Sixty-four years ago, four visionary women perceived a need to recognize and support the professional efforts of outstanding women educators. The collaborative effort of Marie Neal, Agnes Shipman Roberts, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino created Alpha Delta Kappa, which was incorporated in the State of Missouri in 1947. The realization that such an organization was needed was actually born a quarter of a century earlier when Marie Neal sensed that women educators would benefit from being drawn together for the purpose of enhancing professional attitudes and attributes. Agnes Shipman Robertson also perceived the lack of a catalyst in promoting close professional ties among women educators. The effort of our Founders produced a pulse that continues to beat. We honor our Founders as we respond to that beat by being sensitive to the needs of others. Creating the heart of tomorrow requires us to be especially responsive to the needs of children.

E is for EXCELLENCE We light the second candle for EXCELLENCE. We help create the heart of tomorrow through excellence in education. The qualifications for membership in AK are characteristic of excellence. We are accredited educators with enriched abilities and outstanding personal qualifications. We have attained a high degree of acceptance in professional and community relationships. When we were considered for membership, we were highly recommended by other educators. Alpha Delta Kappa recognizes worthy educators by awarding scholarships and grants on the basis of demonstrated excellence. Conferences and conventions feature a wealth of experiences designed to increase our skills. Chapter meetings, as well as workshops and training sessions, help us grow in excellence. Publications such as the Columns and KAPPAN allow us to keep informed of ongoing developments with regard to AK. Children are the beneficiaries of our commitment to educational excellence. The heart of tomorrow is touched by our quest for excellence. We help create the heart of tomorrow as we skillfully and compassionately work with children.

A is for ALTRUISM We light the third candle for ALTRUISM. Altruism is truly the heart of our organization and a powerful tool in creating the heart of tomorrow as we give to meet social, emotional, physical, medical and financial needs. We create the heart of tomorrow through giving to worthwhile community-based altruistic projects. Alpha Delta Kappa has more than 38,000 members with more than 1,400 chapters in 50 states as well as Puerto Rico, Australia, Canada, Jamaica and Mexico. In just the last two years, AK members have given over 12 million dollars in money and other gifts, plus over 2.2 million dollars in scholarships. Over 2.2 million hours of volunteer service by ADK members have been given to our communities. Internationally, we support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. We also provide scholarships and grants. Locally, our chapters support the following community-based organizations and projects:               

Channel One Christmas Anonymous Crisis Nursery Dorothy Day House Gift of Life Transplant House Habitat for Humanity Interfaith Hospitality Network Join the Journey: 10 Mile Cancer Walk PossAbilities Meals on Wheels Ronald McDonald House Rochester Public School Libraries Running Start Salvation Army Women’s Shelter

We join other AK members in collectively channeling our time, talent, and treasure for the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession, and the world. Clearly, the hearts of tomorrow are touched by our generosity.

R is for RECOGNITION We light the fourth candle for RECOGNITION. The heart of tomorrow is strengthened by recognizing group, as well as individual, achievements. Alpha Delta Kappa provides a variety of awards designed to recognize the collective success of chapters. The Positive Net Growth Award, the Seven-Pearl Chapter Award, and the Annual Program Award are examples of the recognition available to our chapters. When we file our reports in a timely manner, increase our membership and fulfill other requirements, our success is noticed and recognized.

Outstanding women educators are recognized by AK through the Excellence in Education Award. Additionally, the Women of Distinction award is designed to recognize worthy women who have distinguished themselves in the fields of education, humanities, sciences or arts on a national or international level. Previous winners include Shirley Temple Black, Pearl Buck, Indira Gandhi, Lady Bird Johnson, Margaret Mead, Mother Teresa, and Barbara Bush. Many other awards indicative of educational excellence are also recognized by AK. Alpha Delta Kappa abounds with opportunities for recognizing commitment to educational excellence as well as acknowledging personal and professional growth. Although we appreciate recognition, we touch the heart of tomorrow through our commitment to serve. The heart of tomorrow is shaped by those who continually give of themselves with or without recognition.

T is for TEACHING We light the fifth candle for TEACHING. We create the heart of tomorrow through teaching. We have rich opportunities to touch the heart of tomorrow through teaching. Our reward comes when we observe children growing in character and wisdom. We know that something as simple as a smile or a nod can touch a child’s heart. One of our Founders, Marie Neal, said: If there is such a thing as a philosophy of life, I would recommend to anyone to keep busy with worthwhile projects, look for the good in people, have a genuine love in your heart for all humanity, be able to see another’s point of view, and never get so involved with your own ideas that you are not able to see the viewpoint of the youth of America.” Our professional lives have been devoted to working with children. We treasure the time we spend with children. We know the joy that comes from teaching. We create in the hearts of children receptiveness to worthwhile pursuits. Our experience has taught us that the heart of tomorrow is shaped by what we do today. YOU MIGHT ONLY BE ONE TEACHER IN WORLD, BUT YOU MIGHT BE THE WORLD TO A CHILD. REACH OUT AND TOUCH A CHILD’S HEART. — by Sandra Walker, Minnesota Chi Chapter

Founders’ Day Ceremony

Designing a Tomorrow Quilt By Jackie Farmer October 2005 Prepare a piece of poster board or other background with the quilt outline and whatever prompts you need to put the “quilt pieces” into the correct spots. You may want to use Velcro, or simply tape them into place. READER 1: Years ago at the state convention in Waco, Jackie, in her welcoming speech as Convention CoChairman, compared Alpha Delta Kappa to a well-loved quilt. We are going to recreate that Alpha Delta Kappa quilt today. A quilt is a creation of the hand, and of the heart. They are long-term investments. Many hours go into the design, the actual crafting in intricate steps, and finally the use of a quilt. Although they are found in many cultures, there is something decidedly Americana about a quilt. Well kept, a quilt can last for generations. How many of you can’t help thinking of your own family history when you see a quilt draped across a bed or over the back of an old rocking chair. They bring to mind moments of comfort, family and heritage. Quilts are timeless. They are a legacy passed from one generation to another. READER 2: Our Founders also created Alpha Delta Kappa with their hands and hearts. Hoping that our sorority would become a long-term investment, they spent hours designing, crafting and finally seeing Alpha Delta Kappa in operation. Intricate steps were taken to develop an organization that would be timeless. To create a group of like-minded women that would be comfort to one another. Agnes, Hattie, Marion and Marie were women with amazing foresight who saw a legacy in quilting the beginnings of Alpha Delta Kappa. They are our corner squares. (Place corner squares on poster board or background) READER 3: Each chapter is a square of color and pattern in our Alpha Delta Kappa quilt. Our Founders knew that the strength of the sorority is dependent in the close-knit dedication of the local chapter. These are the sisters that live and work together, who often have the same students, who know the same families, who share the same triumphs and tragedies. Each chapter is as distinct and individual as its members, yet combined create a well-working organization. The chapter is where the “work” of Alpha Delta Kappa takes place, where tomorrow’s leaders are trained. The shared-experiences of the local chapters create the strength and the heart of the sorority. (Place the center portion of the logo into position.)

READER 4: The chapter squares combined make the rows of our quilt. Our Founders knew that in order to create a cohesive sisterhood, there needed to be involved in activities beyond the chapter level. So we join with other sisters in other chapters to create our Districts. In districts, the influence and effectiveness of Alpha Delta Kappa is multiplied and the sisterhood expands and strengthens. When the rows of Districts are sewn together, the recognizable shape of the quilt is finally seen. That is our state organization. Texas Alpha Delta Kappa would be nothing without each member, in each chapter, in each District. The parts become a whole and sisterhood spreads like this warm comfortable quilt across a state as vast and intricate as the pieces of our Alpha Delta Kappa quilt. Yet, different as we all are, we become one; one in purpose, one in vision and one in design. (Place the side pieces into position.) READER 5: Finally, the boarder of our Alpha Delta Kappa Quilt is our International organization. With guidelines and procedures, communication and support, we are held together like the boarder holds and frames our quilt. The boarder of the quilt finishes the edges, giving it strength and stability, holding us all together. (Place the boarder pieces around outside of quilt.) Our Alpha Delta Kappa quilt started with four small squares, the idea and inspiration for the rest of our creation, and slowly we worked outward to form something of beauty, comfort and strength. It is every quilt maker’s dream that her labor of hands and heart might someday be passed down to the younger generation. That was the dream of Agnes, Marie, Marion and Hattie also. They dreamed that the creation of Alpha Delta Kappa become an organization strong and beautiful enough to be passed down to the next generation. We are that generation, and it is our charge to continue Designing Tomorrow, as we craft Texas Alpha Delta Kappa into a gift worth giving. What will the Alpha Delta Kappa quilt that we passed down look like? READER 6: (Chaplain if possible) Let us pray. Heavenly Creator, We thank you today that the four women that founded our sorority were women of strength of purpose and foresight. We are thankful for their hard work and dedication to the organization of Alpha Delta Kappa, which gives us a legacy as beautiful and comfortable as an old quilt. We accept the gift that they passed down to us and we renew our pledge today to continue Designing Tomorrow by Crafting the Gifts of Alpha Delta Kappa into a sorority worth leaving to the next generation. Bless the work of our hands and our hearts. Amen.

Alpha Delta Kappa FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY By 2002-2004 Puerto Rico State President Elba Estrella Since 1956, with the expansion of sororities, myriad educators in and outside the United States have had their opportunity to work as recognized excellent educators. During this month of October 2003, we pay tribute to Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie Poppino, Marion Southall and Marie Neal. I wish to tender my appreciation to those Founders who have departed, and to those who today continue accomplishing the dreams of those magnificent women of 1947. It is in the month of October, a time to recall our history, to celebrate our present day and to reflect on our sorority’s future. It is a future that has given us the opportunity to continue their dream to pay tribute to the labor of a noble trade. To undertake their mission, they possessed the most beautiful emotion, love; a love for their profession and for their fellow educator, and an endeavor to endow with distinction educators of excellence. They professed the need, not only to contribute with an organization of high moral values for educators, but that, in addition, one that is recognized and respected by government leaders and the society in general, as representative of a profession that has had great impact on human formation. They did not waver; they conquered countless obstacles. Today, we benefit from their courage and their noble efforts. We have to continue strengthening our sorority. The organization’s growth and development is dependent on our enthusiasm and all its members’ sincere collaboration. These ladies whom we honor today, carried out their part and continued to toil on behalf of our sorority. I tender my most sincere appreciation for serving as models to the educators we have invited into our circle of excellence. During this biennium, we initiated 54 neophytes and reinstated 13 young sorority members. We also established a new Alpha Kappa Chapter at the University College of San Juan in San Juan, Puerto Rico. All a sign that the dreams of Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie Poppino, Marion Southall and Marie Neal still live in our hearts. Now it is our young educators’ task to continue strengthening our sorority. In Puerto Rico, and probably internationally, we are mostly retired educators, making it difficult to identify which teachers have the desirable qualities to become part of our organization. Therefore, my fellow young sorority sisters, teachers, working professors, you have the initiative. Do not allow the Founders’ dream be just that . . . a dream.

MENSAJE DE LA PRESIDENTA ESTATAL DE PUERTO RICO EN LA CELEBRACION DEL HOMENAJE A NUESTRAS FUNDADORAS Desde el año 1956 con la expansión de la Sororidad, son miles las educadoras en y fuera de Estados Unidos las que han tenido la oportunidad de que su labor como educadoras excelentes haya sido reconocida. En este mes de octubre de 2003, le rendimos homenaje a Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie Poppino, Marion Southall y Marie Neal. Deseo extender mi gratitud a esas fundadoras que se han marchado, y a las que hoy continúan realizando el sueño de aquellas maravillosas mujeres del año 1947. Es precisamente el mes de octubre la época de recordar nuestra historia, de celebrar el presente y reflexionar sobre el futuro de nuestra sororidad. Un futuro nos dio la oportunidad de continuar el sueño de aquellas que un día se dedicaron a enaltecer la noble labor de esta profesión. Para emprender su obra ellas poseían el sentimiento más hermoso, el Amor. Amor por su profesión y por la c1ase magisterial. Empeño de dar un merecido reconocimiento a educadoras excelentes. Ellas percibieron la necesidad, de no solamente ofrecer a la clase magisterial una organización de altos valores éticos, sino que ademas fuera reconocida y respetada por los líderes gubernamentales y la sociedad en general, como la profesión de más impacto en la formación del ser humano. No se amedrentaron . . . vencieron innumerables obstáculos. Hoy, nosotras disfrutamos la valentia y el esfuerzo abnegado en ellas. Tenemos que continuar fortaleciendo nuestra sororidad. El desarrollo y crecimiento de la organización depende del entusiasmo y sincera cooperación de todos sus miembros. Estas damas a quien también homenajeamos hoy, hicieron su parte y continúan laborando en beneficio de la sororidad. Les extiendo mi sincera gratitud por servir de ejemplo a las educadoras que hemos invitado a nuestro círculo de excelencia. En este bienio hemos iniciado 54 neófitas y reinstalado 13 sororitas. Instalamos un nuevo Capítulo Alpha Kappa en el Colegio Universitario de San Juan. Indicación que el sueño de Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie Poppino, Marion Southall y Marie Neal aún está latente en nuestros corazones. Corresponde ahora alas educadoras jóvenes continuar la tarea de fortalecer nuestra sororidad.

En Puerto Rico y probablemente intemacionalmente somos muchas las educadoras retiradas. A nosotras se nos hace dificil observar quiénes poseen las cualidades necesarias para ser parte de esta organización. Por lo tanto, mis queridas sororitas jóvenes, maestras, profesoras activas, ustedes tienen la iniciativa. No dejen que el sueño de las Fundadoras del año 1947 sea precisamente eso . . . un sueño. ALPHA DELTA KAPPA les ha abierto las puertas . . . aprovechen la oportunidad . . . vuelen alto . . . conviértanse en líderes . . . salgan en busca de la EXCELENCIA.

Elba Estrella La presidenta terminó su mensaje con un poema que precisamente hace un Hamado alas profesoras jóvenes: We are the builders, who built today, But someone before us has paved the way. Someone has dreamed and someone has prayed And through their vision our hearthstones were laid. We also are dreamers today, who dream But someone tomorrow must cross the stream. Someone must fashion from our mind’s view The future building that we would do. Someone must master because we believe Someone will do what we dream to achieve. - Maryellis Wheaton, 1987, Washington Eta Chapter

Founders’ Day Ceremony The Eighth Pearl By Laureen Dunn Louisiana Beta Eta Chapter We are here tonight to recognize four remarkable and outstanding women- Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino. We honor them for their vision of an organization that would recognize and support teachers in their individual pursuits of personal and professional excellence. We are thankful to them for creating an organization where women can find strength and inspiration not just from other “teachers,” but from sisters who share their same desire for excellence. These women understood that when the strength and talents of individuals are organized and channeled, great strides can be made in the lives of that individual and the achievements of the organization. We understand that the diligence with which they carried out their endeavor- tirelessly and with vigilance was an extension of their faith. It is because of their insight, their standards, and their unceasing efforts, that we are members of an organization which promotes the highest standards of excellence in education thereby, having a lasting effect on children throughout the world and throughout generations. It is because of their nurturing spirits, a desire to serve others, and their courage that they were able to create an organization that has withstood the test of time for almost 60 years- 60 years of excellence in education and altruism… 60 years that have been characterized by some, as marking the beginning of more self-serving and self-centered philosophy. However, these women saw the hope and potential of each generation . They saw the greatness of all generations if each is exposed to even one teacher whose unwavering efforts are to impart knowledge and values to those in her care. For a moment I would like to share with you some anecdotes about Agnes Shipman Robertson. She, with Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino, had an idea- an idea born of the need of the teaching profession to have an organization that would support women educators in their desire to pursue excellence in their field. The four of them were in the work together. Their

strengths and individual talents were perfect complements of each other and their roles in the creation of Alpha Delta Kappa seem to fit together so perfectly as if bearing the fingerprint of some divine plan. There they had a dream and a desire. They had an idea and it was worthy enough for the sacrifice. In Agnes’ words, “I was scared… but when one wishes to do something and really thinks it is important, it can be done.” According to a friend, “Agnes was 24 hours a day, 8 days a week, Alpha Delta Kappa. Agnes was the promoter. She did the traveling, carrying the initiation materials in the trunk of her car. She would travel from state to state, setting up 3 chapters, then leaving a field representative for further support and guidance. Agnes always had visions. Every night she would come up with something new. She would come back from trips loaded with ideas. She would pass the ideas onto staff for implementation so she could go and do other things. She was a great thinker as she drove. She thought of ways to work things, ways to grow.” As I read these comments from her friends, I could not help but recognize these same characteristics among the sisters in my own chapter as well as friends in other chapters. I thought it interesting how our sisters, as did the Founders, bring their strengths and talents to this sisterhood, appearing to be perfect compliments of each other, in order to bring to pass a stronger organization dedicated to this same vision- excellence in education. As I thought about the wisdom, knowledge, and emotional support shared among the sisters in my chapter, I began to understand how the different strengths and talents of these four women, resulted in the successful creation of this sorority. Bear with me for a moment while I shed light on the reality of great endeavors such as this. Historically, and certainly we can see this pattern in our own lives, great efforts to do good, do not go without their opposition. There must have been huge stumbling blocks and disappointments along the way. There must have been times when the light at the end of the tunnel seemed faint,

at times an illusion. There must have been times at the end of the day, when they asked, “What in the world were we thinking- to have started such an endeavor!” And yet, together, united in their purpose, they provided each other with the strength and the will to continue in their pursuit. I suggest to you this

evening that neither vision nor purpose was the true impetus behind the successful creation of Alpha Delta Kappa, but the love and emotional support these women gave to each other. We all have had ideas, small or grand, we have had a vision of something to be achieved, created, or obtained. We know that any worthy endeavor is not realized without the encouragement and support of one or many who grasp the vision as we do. We know that trials met in the path of one’s life are more easily born when there are others to share the burden. I suggest this to you – then as today, the strength in this organization is the result of sisters giving love and service to each other, bearing one another’s burdens, lending help and comfort as needed. Examples: We are familiar with the 7 pearls of Achievement, but there is another pearl- the 8th pearl. Without having achieved this pearl, the dream of these women would have never been realized. This pearl starts as a tiny grain of sand… and as sister serves and supports sister, it grows into the most coveted of all the pearls- love and desire to serve. It is the eighth pearl that provided the strength for the Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa to endure the difficult times. It is the eighth pearl that strengthens and binds the sisters of each chapter. It is the eighth pearl that bonds chapter to chapter, district to district, region to region and sisters around the world. There are strands of pearls hanging on the centerpiece of each table. At this time, we would like each of you to take one…. These seven pearls represent all the virtues, talents, and strengths possessed by each of these women- courage, commitment, faith, vision, selflessness, leadership, tenacity. It is the eighth pearl we want you to add to these seven. It is the eighth pearl that we want you to remember. There will be sisters around to help you. (Pause to let them add the pearl) Sisters of Alpha Delta Kappa, It is the pearl of love and service that ensured the realization of the vision of our Founders. It is the pearl

of love and service that was the strength of Alpha Delta Kappa then and the strength of Alpha Delta Kappa today. I have a confession to make. Prior to this Founders’ Day , I had read about these women and listened carefully to each Founders’ Day Celebration, however, I had never really given thought to the determination and self less efforts required to successfully create a National Organization. I hadn’t given thought to the time in history that this was taking place: post-WWII . I thought of my mother who was their contemporary and the strength and determination she possessed. I thought of how the hardship of the Great Depression and then WWII had honed these women into strong, determined, selfless women. I thought of how they were born to that time in history for a purpose as each generation is - born to prepare a better way for the next. To see the need of an organization that would bind women educators together creating an effective force and a standard of excellence in education was truly visionary, for in no other time in history have youth been more subjected to more paths in life that would lead them away from the desire to gain truth and knowledge. The profession of teaching has always included opportunities to be play many roles. But at no other time has it been so necessary to teach moral and social values as well as core subjects-… to teach and nurture with the love a parent because some of our children may not experience this love, or because there are so many opportunities to make poor choices that children need even more guidance. Just as the Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa, my mother, and some of your mothers were born at a time for a specific purpose, so we have been born in this time to be the teachers needed to teach this generation of children. The challenge is greater because the opposition to gaining truth and knowledge is greater. No other time in history has there been more of a need for strong, determined, women of excellence in education. And so in no other time in history have women needed the educational and emotional support found in the sister hood we call Alpha Delta Kappa. The End

EXCELLENCE IN ACTION LEADER: Excellence in Action is the theme of the 2009-2011 biennium chosen by our International President, Jane Miller. The goal of educators has changed little in the last 62 years, when Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino realized that women educators were providing Excellence in Action, but were rarely recognized for their accomplishments. They could not ‘network’ with other professionals, (the internet was restricted to the local hair salon, and the teachers’ lounge was restricted to anything but running dittos on a hand crank machine). It may be hard to understand in this age of instant communication, how difficult it was for educators to share their ideas, to realize their potential, and to promote the ideals of education outside their own classroom. Finally in 1947, after 25 years in the planning, the founders of Alpha Delta Kappa took Action to achieve Excellence. Together they established an organization which has spread around the world. It has grown from a small group of ladies gathered together to share teaching strategies, to a world-wide organization providing untold benefits to children and educators, not to mention the numerous recipients of altruistic endeavors undertaken by ADK members. READER 1: Agnes Shipman Robertson, the first Grand President of Alpha Delta Kappa, was the visionary. She was a music teacher and an assistant principal, and later on, worked for an educational supply company. She traveled around the country with her ADK materials in the trunk of her car, meeting teachers in all corners of the USA and installing chapters as she went. Her friend said she was ‘feisty, charming, gracious, and would not take NO for an answer’. READER 2: Marie Neal, whose field was high school history and economics, was the first Executive Secretary-Treasurer of Alpha Delta Kappa. She met with teachers during her travels with her husband, who worked closely with the public schools. Her management skills forged the beginnings of our sorority. READER 3: Marion Southall was the first Vice President and head of the Executive Board of Alpha Delta Kappa. Marion’s family was also very involved in the sorority. Her husband, an attorney, acted as general counsel to ADK, and her children, Carolyn and Richard, composed our song, “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.” READER 4: Hattie Poppino was a teacher and school librarian for many years in Kansas. She was a member of the first Executive Board of Alpha Delta Kappa, and her classroom experience was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of our sorority.

LEADER: The development of Alpha Delta Kappa could be compared to the designing of a quilt. Both are long-term investments. Many hours must go into the design to ensure the effectiveness and stability. Designing a sorority, like a quilt, requires a foundation. (Place a large background on a stand – a tag board of blue or similar color will work) READER 1: The cornerstones of our sorority are our 4 founders, Agnes Shipman Roberson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino. (Place 4 stars with names of founders - one in each corner of the “quilt” secured with Velcro or tape). READER 2: A sorority, like a quilt, requires a theme. In Arizona, our theme is REACH FOR THE STARS, where each member is asked to strive for Excellence in Actions. (Place a replica of our theme in the center of the quilt.) READER 3: A sorority and a quilt require many pieces. Each part fits together in the design to promote the effectiveness and stability of the whole. Every member adds an important piece. Every chapter is an integral part of the whole. (Members come up and place _28__ stars around the quilt, one for each chapter Arizona) READER 4: A quilt and a sorority require a protective border. Our Southwest District and International organization provide the stability to hold us together. Without them, our pieces would tear and drift apart. Our Founders knew the importance of reaching out to sisters from other communities, providing the support necessary to grow and strengthen. (Place a border around edges decorated with Southwest and International theme symbols) LEADER: Join with me today in honoring the foresight of our Founders. Let us remember the hard work and dedication of Agnes, Marie, Marion and Hattie; and strive to live up to their hope for the future of Alpha Delta Kappa. May we all strive for EXCELLENCE in every ACTION and remember to REACH FOR THE STARS. Please join in singing THE LAMP OF ALPHA DELTA KAPPA.

Submitted by Margaret Lutz, Membership Chairman Arizona Alpha Zeta With recognition for ideas from Delaware President, Peggy Keay And Jackie Farmer of Texas, “Designing a Tomorrow Quilt”

Founders’ Day Ceremony

Hold the Flame High By Paula Raeke October, 2002 Using the flame, we “Light the Way” for Alpha Delta Kappa and pay tribute to our Founders, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino. What makes a flame burn? There are three ingredients that must all be present for a flame: a spark, some fuel, and of course, oxygen. As I light this lamp of learning (or big candle) you’ll notice the three— First, the spark comes from the match (or lighter). A spark is a start or beginning. There are other types of sparks in our life. Sparks come as motivation or a nudge in the right direction. Perhaps someone gave you a spark at an inservice recently. Or you received a brainstorm from convention or conference this summer for renewal of your chapter. Our Founders put this spark of enthusiasm to work when they founded our sorority in 1947. From humble beginnings this flame of honor and recognition for outstanding women educators has spread like a wildfire through the world these past 55 years. After the spark, for the flame to flourish and burn there must be a fuel to feed the fire. The fuel in this lamp is oil. (The fuel in this candle is wax.) It will burn out in a few hours, simply because the wax or fuel will go away. Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino knew that our sorority needed a type of fuel to keep glowing. Over the years membership and renewal has been the fuel to revitalize our sorority. Most chapters have been ignited with new members every year. Adding this kind of fuel will keep the flame burning in Alpha Delta Kappa. Closely examine our purpose and goals. Make them the fuel to keep your chapter flame burning brightly by adding new members yearly. No matter how many matches you strike, or how many candles or oil lamps you light, the flame will not burn without oxygen. The more oxygen fed to the flame, the brighter it burns. When deprived of this life the flame goes out. Our Founders understood that our sorority needed new breath. They traveled to many states those first few years establishing new chapters and encouraging membership development in other chapters.

By 1953 Texas had two new chapters Alpha in Ft. Worth, and Beta in Dallas. Of course that was the breath of life for Alpha Delta Kappa in Texas. Since that year there have been 157 chapters established during nearly 50 years. The oxygen has gone out of 46 chapters, I’m sad to say. For some reason life breath of those chapters completely faded over time. Most of their members revitalized by transferring to other chapters. Thank goodness, we’ve kept our resilience. That’s what our Founders would tell us today: Keep those ideals high, recruit younger women to breathe life into your chapter, fan the flame of service in the name of altruism often, and promote world peace. Scientists have proven that all three things must be thee for a fire: a spark, the fuel and oxygen. Withholding one item will cause the flame to perish. Symbolically, we know our flame of Alpha Delta Kappa will never go out. Our Founders instilled in us the things for keeping the flame of Alpha Delta Kappa alive: Spark: motivation Fuel: membership development Oxygen: that breath of renewal to our spirit to keep our purpose and goals well-formed in our minds. We salute our Founders by lighting a candle for each one today. Agnes Shipman Robertson Marie Neal Marion Southall Hattie Poppino (After all are lighted from the big candle, then hold the candles up at shoulder height toward the lamp of learning.) In this new biennium, let us recommit our pledge of service in the name of Alpha Delta Kappa as we HOLD THE FLAMES HIGH In honor and recognition of our sisters and Founders.

(Closing prayer, thought or meditation) [Use an oil lamp or that lamp of learning that Melinda gave us. Also a pillar candle could be used in the center of the table. The four other candles lighted later can sit on the outside of the circle or in a straight line at the back. Be creative with the cloth and flowers, ribbons, etc.]

Founders’ Day 2011 Today we remember our Founders and celebrate our membership in Alpha Delta Kappa. It was through the vision, dedication and actions of Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino that Alpha Delta Kappa was first chartered allowing it to organize chapters in all 50 states as well as around the globe. By the leadership of these women, we came together and have learned to adapt our own abilities to benefit our chapters, districts, states, regions and nations. Agnes noticed that women educators lacked a way to gather together and promote their profession. This is where Alpha Delta Kappa began. Even back at the beginning, “networking” was taking place and here we thought that was a 21st century concept. The founders worked to promote commitment to excellence in education as well as professional and personal growth. Now it’s time to put you work. On these cards are events in the history of Alpha Delta Kappa as well as world events. I’m going to pass these out and see if you can put them in order, timeline style. (Put events in order and make corrections and comments about each as needed) So as the world has changed you can see Alpha Delta Kappa has made changes along the wayadapting to the times, technology and educational issues. Hopefully this helps you understand some of the events throughout our Alpha Delta Kappa history and get you curious about others. Ask long time members or go to the Alpha Delta Kappa website to learn even more. We have a rich heritage and look forward to making connections for the future. We honor our founders and look forward to what is to come. Let us stand and sing “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.” Events for timeline (omit dates) Use these or put in any that are relevant for your audience: World War II ends 1945 Alpha Delta Kappa issued a charter by the state of Missouri 1947 Illinois ADK chartered 1950 “Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa” written/copyrighted 1951 Korean War ends 1953 Upsilon Chapter chartered 1954 First National ADK Convention 1955 Chicago

First International ADK Convention 1959 Miami International Teacher Education Scholarships Established/Awarded 1963 JFK assassinated 1963 Headquarters constructed in Kansas City, MO 1965 Beta Eta Chapter chartered 1971 Sears Tower Constructed 1974 ADK Week Established 1975 St Jude’s Hospital-first International Altruistic Project 1981 Bears win the Super Bowl 1986 Agnes Shipman Robertson died 1987 ADK Month established 1991 First and only International Convention held outside the USA in Toronto, Ontario, Canada 1993 ADK celebrated its 50th anniversary 1997 Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation became an International Altruistic project 1997 ADK web site went online 1997 Handshake/password made optional 2000 World Trade Center Falls 2001 Project S.A.V.E. drive to establish an ADK school in Viet Nam began 2009 Offices of corresponding secretary, historian and chaplain became optional at the international convention in Chicago 2011 Submitted by Jan Page, Illinois Upsilon

FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY

SHARE THE GIFTS Nancy Finlayson, Michigan Phi Chapter (Setting: Podium to side of stage. Single chair in center of stage.) (Parts: Leader, Pledge, Seven Gift Sisters) (Props: Seven beautifully wrapped presents labeled with the following tags: Educational Excellence, Participation and Leadership, World Understanding, Altruism, Fellowship, Personal/Professional Growth and Leadership Skills. One chocolate bar for each member present)

LEADER: (in a serious but welcoming voice) Welcome. This afternoon we are gathered for our annual Alpha Delta Kappa Founders’ Day Ceremony and new member initiation. Will our Alpha Delta Kappa pledge please come forward? (Pledge nervously comes up to podium) (Reassuringly) Now, Pledge, there is nothing to be nervous about. Would you please tell us who you are? PLEDGE: (very enthusiastically) I am an outstanding, extremely-eager-to-please, overly enthusiastic, young educator with a great deal of energy and I (pause—with great pride) am an Alpha Delta Kappa pledge. L: We are so happy that you have chosen to join our beloved sorority. Please be seated. (Pledge sits in chair center stage). Before we begin, however, I have one question for you. P: (Jumping up, raising hand, very excitedly, in a loud and very clear voice) 1947! L: (flustered) Well, yes, Pledge. You are right. 1947 is the year that our wonderful sorority was organized. However, that was not my question… P: (interrupting) Kansas City, Missouri! L: (with a sigh) Yes, Pledge. You are right again. Kansas City, Missouri, was where our historic sorority was founded. But my question… P: (with great deliberation) Agnes, Hattie, Marion and Marie.

L: (becoming a little angry) Well, Pledge, you certainly have done your homework. Yes, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie Poppino, Marion Southall, and Marie Neal were the foresighted Founders of our international sorority. But, all I wanted to know… P: (enthusiasm continues undaunted) “(name of current International President)”! L: (almost to the breaking point) Yes, yes, yes. _______________________. Of course, everyone knows that she is the new International President of Alpha Delta Kappa who was recently elected at the International Convention in ___________________. But before we start, I just wanted to ask… P: (Jumps up and shouts) Olive green and golden yellow! L: (with straining patience) Most-welcome Pledge. WOULD YOU PLEASE SIT DOWN? ALL I WANTED TO ASK YOU WAS WHETHER YOU WERE COMFORTABLE OR NOT! (Pledge sits quickly and nods her head ‘yes’ sheepishly) Now, may we continue? (Pledge hangs her head) This afternoon your Alpha Delta Kappa sisters would like to present you with some special gifts. P: (Jumps up again) I LOVE gifts! (A glare from the Leader makes her sit down again) L: Your gifts, Pledge, cannot be bought in any store. These are gifts that you will receive as you become more deeply involved with Alpha Delta Kappa and its workings. Your first gift… (Each Gift Giver enters in turn and brings a beautifully wrapped package to present to the Pledge) GIFT 1: I bring you the Gift of Educational Excellence. (hands gift to Pledge) L: You can enjoy the benefits of Educational Excellence through the many scholarships offered from chapter to International level. GIFT 2: I bring you the Gift of Participation and Leadership. L: As a member of Alpha Delta Kappa you will have the opportunity to participate in our many activities at the chapter, S/P/N and International level as well as hold leadership positions. GIFT 3: I bring you the Gift of World Understanding. L: Your membership in Alpha Delta Kappa will allow you to become acquainted with sisters of various cultures, races and ethnic backgrounds. GIFT 4: I bring you the Gift of Altruism. L: Through our International altruistic projects, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and many local and S/P/N projects you will be able to share with others who are less fortunate or are in a time of need.

GIFT 5: I bring you the Gift of Fellowship. L: Your membership in Alpha Delta Kappa will bring you life-long friendships that will develop across chapter, S/P/N, provincial and national boundaries. GIFT 6: I bring you the Gift of Personal/Professional Growth. L: Each one of us brings our own special gift to Alpha Delta Kappa and receives much in return. We teach – we learn – we grow. GIFT 7: I bring you the Gift to Develop Leadership Skills. L: This gift will help you benefit our educational area as well as the community in which we live. Pledge, we are happy to Share these Gifts of Alpha Delta Kappa with you. May you open each gift with care and may it last a lifetime. (Pause) (Pledge hugs each of her Gift Sisters, thanking them) L: However wonderful each of these gifts is, as women educators we know that at the end of a long day of teaching, we only crave one gift. Therefore, this afternoon ___________ Chapter wants to present you with that special gift—a chocolate bar. Enjoy and happy Founders’ Day! (Gift Sisters pass out a ribbon-wrapped chocolate candy bar to each sister present)

Agnes Shipman Robertson Agnes (died 1987): (Select someone to portray) Good morning, my name is Agnes Shipman Robertson. I along with my friends Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino, founded Alpha Delta Kappa in 1947. (Wait for applause from the audience) Let me tell you a little about myself. I was born in Joplin, Missouri and received my foundational education in Joplin. I realized very early that I was musically gifted so, when I went to college I majored in music with a minor in art. I received my teaching credentials from Missouri State College in Springfield and Peabody College in Nashville, Tennessee. After graduation, I returned to Joplin, and became a music teacher, later becoming an assistant principal. As head of the junior high music program, I was fortunate to teach many gifted young musicians. Several of the groups under my tutelage earned recognition at interstate competitions. In addition to my musical activities at school, I was also very active in church and community musical groups. I often observed that schools could accomplish more with better equipment and proper materials. When the opportunity presented itself, I accepted a job with an educational company and traveled most of the United States and Canada explaining the importance of proper equipment and materials, as well as their efficient use by educators. Through my travels with the educational company, I formed connections with many teachers, superintendents and principals, and attended many National Education Association conventions. Speaking with teachers like myself, I learned that many knew of a fellow teacher in the system, but did not know that teacher personally. I saw a need for an organization that would facilitate teachers coming together and getting to know each other. An organization that would serve as a catalyst to promote closer professional ties among women educators. 2009: Founders’ Day Skit written by Carolyn Y. George-Remy, Eta Chapter; Adapted from Founders’ Biographies posted on Alpha Delta Kappa Website. http://www.alphadeltakappa.org/History/Founders.html

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In discussions with my friend, Marie Neal we developed an organizational foundation for Alpha Delta Kappa International Honorary Organization for Women Educators. Marie, you remember those earlier days, what was it like?

Marie Neal

Marie (1969):

(Select someone to portray) Yes, Agnes, I remember it well. You and my husband Thomas, worked for the same book company. We traveled to numerous teacher meetings across the country. Teachers came in, listened to speeches and went their way. They were always well spoken, intelligent and thirsty for new knowledge and opportunities. But let me tell you my story. I was also born in Joplin, Missouri. I received my teaching certificate in high school history and economics from Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. While at Baker, I served two terms as treasurer of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. My college sorority experiences left a lasting impression on me. I always believed that a fraternal organization could create a strong bond between women. This was the core belief that was so important to the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. I married Thomas Neal of Kansas City in 1921 and accompanied him on all of his business travels during the first year of our marriage. Because Tom’s company worked closely with the public schools, I had the opportunity to meet many teachers and educators. Their enthusiasm for their profession begged for an organization that supported sisterhood among women educators. Thus began the early days of the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. Agnes: Yes, Marie. I became the organizational founder and you became the executive secretarytreasurer of Alpha Delta Kappa. We quickly realized it was a job far larger than we had imagined. I administered expansion and membership duties, while Marie conducted the 2009: Founders’ Day Skit written by Carolyn Y. George-Remy, Eta Chapter; Adapted from Founders’ Biographies posted on Alpha Delta Kappa Website. http://www.alphadeltakappa.org/History/Founders.html

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office work from her home in Kansas City. Marie, do you remember how much work had to be done? Marie: Yes, Agnes, that’s why we are indebted to our friend Marion Southhall. Marion what do you remember about those days?

Marion Southall Marion (died in 1971): (Select someone to portray) My memories of the earlier days center on the sense of enjoyment we felt as we played a role in bringing women educators together to share our ideas about our profession. I remember sitting at the table in your home, organizing the names, addresses and chapters, keeping track of chapters. Things seemed to move very quickly. With Agnes as the Founder of Alpha Delta Kappa, Marie became the executive secretary-treasurer and Hattie Poppino and I were members of the first executive board. Those were exciting times. Perhaps everyone would like to hear my story.

I am a native of Kansas City, Missouri. I received my teaching credentials from Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. Upon graduating from Baker, I accepted employment with a local publishing house where I was in charge of proof reading and accounting. I was also active in the Alpha Chi Omega alumnae chapter, as well as various church and civic projects. When Agnes and Marie first approached me with the idea of creating an organization for women educators, I wanted to help. Keeping track of the many chapters and membership paperwork was a daunting task. As the organization grew, we realized there may be legal implications to beginnings such an enterprise. My husband, Richard C. Southall, was an attorney. Richard provided legal guidance and would later act as general counsel to Alpha Delta Kappa. The official song of Alpha Delta Kappa, "The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa" was composed by my children Carolyn and Richard. 2009: Founders’ Day Skit written by Carolyn Y. George-Remy, Eta Chapter; Adapted from Founders’ Biographies posted on Alpha Delta Kappa Website. http://www.alphadeltakappa.org/History/Founders.html

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Since 1947, over 125,000 women educators around the world have discovered the many opportunities provided by membership in Alpha Delta Kappa. I was honored to serve as the first National Vice-President and head of the Executive Board. Baker University produced many outstanding women of vision. Hattie, I remember you felt very strongly that we were on the right track.

Hattie Poppino Hattie(died in 1986): (Select someone to portray) Yes, Marion I did. Hello, my name is Hattie Poppino. Just like my dear friend Marion, I am a native of Kansas City, Missouri. I attended Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas, but earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Emporia State Teachers College. I completed summer study at the University of Chicago. I taught commerce and library skills for many years at Garnett and Chanute, in Kansas. My classroom teaching experience was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. In 1945 I became the librarian at Argentine High School in Kansas City, Kansas. My interest and desire to serve lead me to become a member of several professional associations; the National Education Association, the Kansas Teacher's Association, the Kansas Library Association, and the Kansas Association of School Librarians are just a few of the many organizations with whom I have had the privilege to associate . But my richest memories will always be my participation in the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. When Alpha Delta Kappa was incorporated under Missouri law, Agnes, Marie, Marion and I signed the incorporation agreement. Marion’s husband, Richard Southall, was the attorney. What a proud moment that was. On August 13, 1947, Alpha Delta Kappa, honorary fraternal organization for women educators, was incorporated. Agnes served as the first Grand President from 1947-1955, Executive Director from 1955-1985, and Executive Director Emeritus from 1985-1987. 2009: Founders’ Day Skit written by Carolyn Y. George-Remy, Eta Chapter; Adapted from Founders’ Biographies posted on Alpha Delta Kappa Website. http://www.alphadeltakappa.org/History/Founders.html

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Agnes: Yes, we were proud of the women who began our organization and while we make changes and go forward, we are proud of today’s sisters of Alpha Delta Kappa. We are happy to be associated with professional people who try daily to maintain the rich heritage of Alpha Delta Kappa drawing together in fellowship and enhancing their professional attitudes and attributes.

Agnes, Marie, Marion, Hattie: You are Alpha Delta Kappa, and we salute you.

2009: Founders’ Day Skit written by Carolyn Y. George-Remy, Eta Chapter; Adapted from Founders’ Biographies posted on Alpha Delta Kappa Website. http://www.alphadeltakappa.org/History/Founders.html

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AN ALPHA DELTA KAPPA FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY Adapted by Georgia Upsilon Chapter We meet today to honor our Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority. August of 1947 saw their dream come alive, in the granting, by the state of Missouri, of a charter to our organization, incorporating it as an Honorary Sorority allowed to organize chapters in every state of the United States and elsewhere. In 1947 everyone felt that all was well in the world; World War II had ended and there were days of peace. This new organization was created in those peaceful times to give recognition to the individual teacher as well as to gain recognition for the entire teaching profession. The times have changed, but the purposes remain unchanged. It is to honor the faith of our Founders that we assemble here today, to commemorate that first spark of light which began to brighten our way. The candles are lighted today as a reminder of their faith and a challenge to ours — a faith so much needed in these not-so-peaceful times. The F-A-I-T-H candles suggest our Founders, their characteristics, and our mutual blessings as Alpha Delta Kappa sisters. (Light a small candle and use it to light the others). F stands for the FELLOWSHIP (light candle) we enjoy in our chapter meetings and special meetings, such as this one, when we gather to share our experiences. A stands for the AFFECTION (light a candle) in which we hold each other, an affection born of dedication to education, a love of learning and a love of learners. I stands for INSPIRATION (light candle) which we get from each other, not envying the successes of a sister, but being inspired by them and delighting in being a sister to someone who has made an outstanding contribution in our chosen profession. T stands for THOUGHTFULNESS (light candle), so characteristic of an Alpha Delta Kappa sister. Our Founders were thoughtful in their planning for our organization, and you have shown forth this thoughtfulness in your daily activities at school and in your chapters.

H stands for HAPPINESS (light candle), a rare commodity in many places, but in bountiful supply in this organization — happiness in our shared ideals, our dedication to leaving the world a little better than we found it, and a happiness born of good friends getting together to express our love. Can we better honor our Founders than to remember their fellowship, their affection, their inspiration, their thoughtfulness and their happiness? (Step away from the lighted candles in the candelabrum and hold the small candle, still lighted.) In comparison with the combined light of this great sorority, our individual lights seem small. But as a poet once said:

“Hold high the torch (lift the small candle) You did not light its glow 'Twas given you by other hands, you know. 'Tis yours to keep it burning bright, Yours to pass on when you no more need light; For there are other feet that we must guide And other forms go marching by our side . . .” (Closing prayer, thought or meditation)

RECYCLE Recognize the strengths and abilities of our members. Explore the abundance of resources we have within our sorority. Confirming our dedication to the high ideals of Alpha Delta Kappa: friendship, love, education, altruism.... Yield not to the pressures of society but stand firm in our dedication Celebrate sisterhood through Action with dedication Love of learning and love of the learners Enthusiasm -- enthusiasm shared among sisters grows into action.

Reader 1 We come together today to remember our Founders and to celebrate our membership in Alpha Delta Kappa. It was through the vision, dedication , and actions of Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino that the state of Missouri in 1947 issued a charter incorporating Alpha Delta Kappa, allowing it to organize chapters in every state and around the globe. By the leadership of these women, we came together and have learned to recycle ourselves and our varied abilities just as they did. Reader 2 R is for Recognizing the strengths and abilities of our members. Agnes noticed the lack of a catalyst to promote closer professional ties among women educators. She wondered and thought about how this could be remedied. This was the very beginning of what is now Alpha Delta Kappa. With her friend Marie Neal, they formed our organization to recognize the strengths and abilities of our members.

Reader 3: E is for exploring the abundance of resources we have within our sorority. Marion Southall, an educator, proofreader and accountant, and Hattie Poppino, a teacher and a librarian joined in to promote commitment to educational excellence, personal and professional growth, and collectively channel their energies toward the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world. Through networking with women in the newly founded Sorority, many resources among our members have been made available to all our sisters. Reader 4: C is for confirming our dedication to the high ideals of Alpha Delta Kappa: friendship, love, education, altruism.... Our sorority has blossomed into many close friendships which we show through our altruism: Through our International altruistic projects, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and St.

Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and many local and State projects we are able to share with others who are less fortunate or are in a time of need. Grants and scholarships forward our world understanding through education. Our Founders put this spark of enthusiasm to work together in 1947. From humble beginnings, this flame of honor and recognition for outstanding women educators has spread like a wildfire through the world these past 55 years. Reader 5: Y reminds us to say Yes to our dedication and to our high ideals, while saying no to the pressures of our society. In a time when some chapters are disbanding, we need to say yes to those transferring to our chapters. That’s what our Founders would tell us today: Keep those ideals high, recruit younger women to breathe life into your chapter, welcome all sisters, fan the flame of service in the name of altruism often, and promote world peace. Reader 6: The second C is for Celebrating. We need to celebrate sisterhood through Action with dedication.

Our fellowship at chapter meetings and special meeting is a celebration on what can be accomplished when we work together. Reader 7: L stands for Love; the love of learning and love of the learners. As educators, this was a quality that our Founders saw in sisters. Seeing this in others inspires all sisters to make contributions to our profession. Reader 8: The second E is for Enthusiasm -- enthusiasm shared among sisters grows into action. It was through the enthusiasm of our Founders that Alpha Delta Kappa has grown into the great sorority we have today. Enthusiasm is infectious.

Reader 1: As we conclude today, remember to always RECYCLE -- as a tribute to our founders and a way for us to stay strong in our sisterhood.

The Goddesses of Alpha Delta Kappa This program was presented at the Dalton (GA) Fall District meeting on November 3, 2012. The information in the program was compiled by Sandy Weathers of Georgia Gamma Beta. Each goddess was represented by a Ridgeland High School student dressed in costume. Athena’s props were the Greek letter Alpha, an owl perched on a stack of books, and an olive branch. Demeter’s props were the Greek letter Delta and a bundle of wheat. Kore’s props were the Greek letter Kappa, a cornucopia, and a pot of violets in bloom.

Narrator: Cognizant of the need for an organized means of professional and social contact for women educators, our founders Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino decided to form this Greek letter Sorority. The letters they chose represent the names of three Greek goddesses who symbolize the qualities the members of Alpha Delta Kappa strive to emulate. The characteristics of an Alpha Delta Kappa member are represented well by the three goddesses, Athena, Demeter, and Kore. An Alpha Delta Kappa member must be an accredited educator with enriched ability and be outstanding in her personal qualifications. Each of the goddesses was known and respected for her ability. Just as our organization members must be highly recommended by her peers and have attained a high degree of social acceptance in both professional and community relationships, these three goddesses were loved and cherished by the mortals whose lives they touched. Athena: Before you is the Greek symbol Alpha that stands for my name, Athena. One of my symbols it the owl, which represents wisdom. I use this wisdom to help heroes and to settle predicaments. I am a goddess of war, and my presence on your side assures success! I am a superb strategist, and have assisted many a brave hero overcome seemingly impossible tests along his life’s pathway. I prefer using my wisdom to negotiate and problem-solve to keep the peace among people on Earth. The women educators of Alpha Delta Kappa must use wisdom daily in working with their students. As educators, you lead students, enlighten their minds, and help them overcome life obstacles. Another of my symbols is the olive tree, which I gave as a gift to the city of Athens. Over the centuries, my gift has provided food and shelter for people and cultures around the world. The olive tree is seen as a symbol of not only wisdom, but also peace, hope, and light. Just as my gift of the olive tree lives on, your gifts to students will endure throughout their lifetime and beyond. Green is my color; therefore, as Alpha Delta Kappa members, you take olive green as one of your colors. Demeter: The Greek symbol Delta signifies my name, Demeter, the goddess of sowing and reaping and the nurturer of mankind. In Greek mythology I am known as the most generous of

the great Olympian goddesses and am beloved for my service to mankind in giving the gift of the harvest, the reward for cultivation of the soil. I am credited with teaching humans how to grow, preserve, and prepare grain, and I am responsible for the fertility of the land. As educators, your aim is to sow the desire for learning in the minds of youth so that the benefits of your knowledge and experience may be reaped by them and shared with their fellow man. Your instruction cultivates a fertile medium in your students that will continue to abundantly produce a rich harvest of ideas and actions. It has often been told that I am the only Greek goddess who was involved on a day-to-day basis in the lives of the common folk. I can truly empathize with the human experience of suffering and grief, having experienced it fully myself when my daughter was kidnapped. I never stopped looking for her and am therefore known for my ferocity and endurance. As educators, you remain firm and unwavering in your tireless work with children. My symbol is a sheaf of grain, and yellow is my color as well as one of Alpha Delta Kappa’s color. Yellow reflects the traits all of you possess--dependability, resourcefulness, and reliability. Yellow combined with the olive green of Athena constitute the official colors of Alpha Delta Kappa. Kore: I am Kore, often known by the name Persephone, and I am daughter to Demeter. My symbol is the Greek letter Kappa. I am associated with the seasons. I spend part of the year with my mother, and the remainder with my husband. My mother is sad when I leave, and vegetation upon the earth dies, ushering in the cold, barren winter. When I return in spring to visit my mother, she awakens the earth and makes it beautiful once again with flowers and crops. As educators, you strive to awaken the minds of youth so that their lives may become more beautiful through the inspiration imparted to them. My symbol is the cornucopia. This large, horn-shaped basket is filled with the fruits and vegetables of a plenteous harvest. It is the symbol of abundance and nourishment, and shows the land’s fertility and the result of a good year’s labor. This symbol represents the fruits of harvest with which you are rewarded—your students’ successes. The purple violet has been chosen as your symbolic flower because it incorporates the three colors of the organization—green, yellow, and violet-- and it is most indicative of spring. The symbolism associated with violets includes the traits all of you possess--modesty, virtue, affection, watchfulness, faithfulness, love, and happiness. Membership in Alpha Delta Kappa offers many opportunities – recognition of commitment to educational excellence, personal and professional growth, and channeling energies toward the good of their schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world. We are forever indebted to our organization’s founders for enabling us to experience these life-changing opportunities.

Founders’ Day Ceremony

Founders in Harmony

By Bobbie Bailey, New Mexico Lambda Chapter As we all know, our State President’s theme this year is World Understanding Through Music and our Founders’ Day theme is Color Your World With Music. These musical themes would have pleased our four Founders – Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino. It would have pleased them because our four Founders were able to work together in harmony, although each had her very own unique gifts. Harmony can broadly be defined as the combination of two or more musical tones heard simultaneously. As information unfolds about these exceptional women, we will liken them to a harmonic musical chord. Did you know that Agnes Shipman Robertson majored in music? She was indeed a music teacher and at one time was head of a junior high music program. Several of the groups under her tutelage earned recognition at interstate competitions. Agnes was also active in church and community musical groups. As she was teaching, Agnes observed that schools could accomplish more with better equipment and proper materials so she took a job with an educational company and traveled all over the United States and Canada. Through her travels and her work, Agnes noticed the lack of a catalyst to promote closer professional ties among women educators. She wondered and thought about how this could be remedied. This was the very beginning of what is now Alpha Delta Kappa. Let’s place Agnes at the base, or the “root,” of our chord. Agnes and Marie Neal were very good friends and shared the same concern regarding the need for something to draw teachers together to enhance their professional attitudes and attributes. Agnes and Marie talked, as women tend to do, and their discussions led to Agnes becoming the organizational founder of our sorority and Marie becoming the executive secretary-treasurer. Agnes administered expansion and membership duties as she continued to travel around the country, while Marie conducted the office work – keeping records and handling the money - from her home in Kansas City. What a pair! Now Marie becomes the second note in our chord. Then along came Marion Southall, who, although not a musician but an educator, proofreader and accountant, did have a daughter, Carolyn, and a son, Richard, who were musicians. In fact, Carolyn and Richard composed our official song, “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.” How very proud Marion was of that accomplishment, as any mother would be! Also, Marion’s husband, Richard, was the attorney who handled the incorporation of Alpha

Delta Kappa on August 13th, 1947. Alpha Delta Kappa was a “family affair” in that household! Marion becomes the third note in our chord. Last, but not least, is Hattie Poppino, a native of Kansas City, who was a teacher for many years before becoming a librarian. She joined Agnes, Marie and Marion as they continued to work to form new Alpha Delta Kappa chapters to promote commitment to educational excellence and personal and professional growth, and collectively channel their energies toward the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world. Hattie becomes the fourth and final note in our harmonic chord. As each of these ladies’ note or tone was heard simultaneously, it made up the beautiful sorority of Alpha Delta Kappa. They worked in complete harmony to organize this sorority which means so very much to each one of us! What a legacy these ladies have left us! Let’s remember that as we work side by side with our sisters that we are like a lovely melody made up of harmonic chords and notes and that the outcome of our labors together, as well as our fun together, will bring love, support and joy to others! At this time, we’d like all of you to join with us as we not only sing, but also sign the beautiful song made famous by Louis Armstrong, “What a Wonderful World.” Dorothy Andazola-Price will teach us the signs and lead our singing.

Founders’ Day Service

“Light the Way”

We, who have come this evening in celebration and recognition of the _____th anniversary of the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa have strong bonds uniting us. When we pledged ourselves as sisters in this sorority, we became a part of an ever-growing dream, founded on friendship and love: brought into being by faith and unswerving devotion to high ideals and professional standards and developed through fraternal love and service. To each of us who has given her life in the field of education, it is never commonplace to remember together the happiness and the thrills, the joys and the sorrows and even the tears which are a part of living. Because we have all known this part of life, we share with one another a knowledge which binds us ever closer in ties of understanding. Through our association we have formed close friendships, true pearls along life’s varied way. We have known the pleasure of seeing others join us . . . and become a part of our fraternity and its ideals. We have known the excitement of active participation, and we have shared the thrill of watching our sorority grow and expand to become international in scope, and to gain prestige and far-reaching recognition. We have found in our association not only love and friendship, but opportunities to serve, a source of strength, inspiration, faith and a constant admonition to lift up our eyes to everwidening horizons. As we meet in recognition of our _____th anniversary, let us pause to remember that we are today sisters in Alpha Delta Kappa, proud of our past achievements and confident of future goals, because of the vision and actions of our Founders, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marion Southall, Marie Neal and Hattie Poppino. August of 1947 saw their dream come alive, in the granting, by the state of Missouri, of a charter to our organization, incorporating it as an Honorary Sorority allowed to organize chapters in every state of the United States. In 1947, everyone felt that all was well in the world; World War II had ended and peace and prosperity prevailed. This organization was created in those peaceful times to give recognition to the individual teacher as well as to gain recognition for the entire teaching profession. The times have changed. September 11, 2001 taught us that our beloved nation is not sacrosanct. Our world will forever be different, but the purposes and ideals of our organization remain unchanged.

It is to honor the faith of our Founders that we assemble here today, to commemorate that first spark of light which began to brighten our way. L is for the LOVE (light candle) The love our Founders held for our profession. The love we share with one another, born of a dedication to education, a love of learning, and a love of learners. I is for INSPIRATION (light candle) The inspiration which led to the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. The inspiration we receive from each other, being inspired and delighted in being a sister to someone who has made an outstanding contribution in our chosen profession. G is for GROWTH (light candle) The growth of Alpha Delta Kappa into an International Organization supporting many altruistic projects and providing a multitude of scholarships. Growth as individuals in both mind and spirit, growth as teachers in knowledge and understanding, growth as an organization enriching our lives as we reach out to share with the lives of others. H is for HAPPINESS (light candle) The happiness created by our Founders as they recognized those first special educators in that first chapter. Happiness is a rare commodity in many places, but in bountiful supply in this organization — happiness in our shared ideals, our dedication to leaving the world a little better than we found it, and a happiness born of good friends sharing time together. T is for THOUGHTFULNESS (light candle) The thoughtfulness of our Founders in planning our organization. Thoughtfulness is so characteristic of an Alpha Delta Kappa sister. Alpha Delta Kappas continually show forth thoughtfulness in daily activities at school and in their chapters through various altruistic endeavors. Can we better honor our Founders than to remember the LOVE they shared, the INSPIRATION with which they led, the GROWTH their foresight set in motion, the HAPPINESS they created, and the THOUGHTFULNESS with which they planned our organization? Yes, our Founders did “Light the Way!” In comparison with the combined light of this great sorority, our individual lights may seem small, but as a poet once said:

“Hold high the torch You did not light its glow ’Twas given you by other hands, you know. ’Tis yours to keep it burning bright, Yours to pass on when you no more need light; For there are other feet that we must guide And other forms go marching by our side . . .” (Closing prayer, thought or meditation) — Contributed by Louisiana Alpha Lambda Chapter; Written by Rhonda Harvey, Louisiana Alpha Lambda Chapter

Alpha Delta Kappa FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY

“SHARE THE GIFT”

By 2001-2003 International Vice President, South Central Region Melinda McGee

(Start with six, small decorated gift boxes and one large box with the bottom and top decorated separately. As each gift is discussed, it is put into the large box. When all gifts have been discussed the lid is put onto the large box. I distributed the six boxes to different people and had them each present the gift and put it into the large box.) At the 2003 International Convention in Dallas, our 2003-2005 International President Colleen Jacobson announced the 2003-2005 International theme and asked us to “Share the Gift.” You might ask yourself, as did others, “What gift, what does she mean?” Membership in Alpha Delta Kappa affords us many gifts. Today we will examine six gifts that Alpha Delta Kappa offers to us AND then we will reflect on the special gifts you have to offer Alpha Delta Kappa. The first gift is that of altruism. When we think of educators and altruism we naturally think of scholarships. However, we as Alpha Delta Kappa members, have not only awarded thousands of dollars in educational scholarships, we have opened our hearts and pocketbooks to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Pediatric Aids Foundation and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. These are just a few the many charities that have been recipients of time and money of Alpha Delta Kappa members. Our 2001-2003 International altruistic report showed that over $9 million in money and gifts was donated during that biennium in the name of Alpha Delta Kappa. Quite an impressive gift, don’t you agree? The second gift is scholarships for our members. There are numerous opportunities for members to obtain funds to develop personally or professionally. Each of the seven regions awards a $2,500 scholarship to one of its members for advanced study or projects connected with a degree program. Each region also awards Mini-Scholarships each year for us to attend personal or professional continuing education programs. The Living Memorial Scholarship is also a scholarship awarded to one Alpha Delta Kappa sister each year to expand knowledge and develop classroom materials. The Excellence in Education Award is a new award. A $5,000 award is given to one sister at each International Convention. The deadline for the submitting nominations is Dec. 15 of the odd-numbered years. The S/P/N and regional recipients will be announced at S/P/N conventions and regional conference. Information about the Excellence in Education Award and all of our scholarships is available on-line at the Alpha Delta Kappa International Web Site.

The third gift of Alpha Delta Kappa is that of leadership development. At each regional conference or S/P/N and International convention, workshops are provided for chapter officers and members that will help develop leadership skills and strategies that can be used for personal or professional growth. We are fortunate in Alpha Delta Kappa to have exceptional leadership from which to obtain knowledge and skills to become more effective leaders. Participation in these conventions and conferences will only enhance our effectiveness as leaders. Let’s not forget the gift of world understanding. Alpha Delta Kappa has included in our mission statement the goal of promoting world understanding. Each regional conference and International convention, workshops are presented about different countries and cultures. In the South Central Region, we are fortunate to have Mexico, which gives us a first-hand look at what other cultures are experiencing at this time. As a sorority, we also donate thousands of dollars to scholarships for deserving young educators from foreign countries to enhance their education and promote our understanding of their countries and cultures. These young people come together with us at the ITE Weekend in Kansas City at Headquarters to discuss their cultures, as well as express their gratitude for helping to make their dreams come true. Some of them have also attended our International conventions and regional conferences to present workshops about their cultures and fellowship with us. Which brings us to our fifth gift - that of fraternal fellowship. I feel that this is the greatest gift that Alpha Delta Kappa has to offer. “Gems are precious, but fraternal fellowship is priceless.” In our chapters we have those who are there for us when we need the gifts of love, support and understanding. But I know there are many of us today that can say we have friends that we would not otherwise have if it weren’t for Alpha Delta Kappa. On the S/P/N, regional or International level I know I have those I can turn to when I need help or advice on any number of issues. Truly a special gift! The last gift is why we are gathered here today - our heritage. In 1947, four dedicated women educators founded our sorority. Their goal was to create an honorary organization for outstanding women educators. The organization would not only strengthen the commitment to education, but further altruistic endeavors, as well. Our Founders, Marie Neal, Hattie Poppino, Marion Southall and Agnes Shipman Robertson gave us the purposes and precepts for an organization that has now grown to nearly 50,000 members in all fifty states, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and Australia. What a gift they have given us! We have examined six gifts that Alpha Delta Kappa has to offer us; now let’s reflect on what gifts each of us have to offer Alpha Delta Kappa. (Speakers 1-6 stand and bring their gift box and place it in the big box as they tell us what special gift they have. Examples could be enthusiasm, willingness to learn, knowledge of Alpha Delta Kappa, love of Alpha Delta Kappa, presenting workshops at conventions and conferences, etc. )

(Closing prayer, thought or meditation)

Could use the following and change it to a Smile of Vitality, a Smile of Growth – a beaming expression? North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa Founders Day Ceremony 2012-2014 August 13, 1947- Alpha Delta Kappa International Honorary Sorority for Female educators was officially incorporated. This year we celebrate sixty-five years of sisterhood. Sixty-five years of honoring female educators. Sixty-five years of service to our communitieslocally, statewide, and Internationaly. Sixty-five years of striving for world understanding. Sixty-five years of building our sorority by following the goals, the principles, the precepts, the purposes of Alpha Delta Kappa. As we reflect on the North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa theme for the 2012-2014 biennium “Life Giving Inspiration”, we are able to envision more clearly how our path, our journey as a sorority was sparked by the life giving inspiration of four very special individuals, our founders. Agnes Shipman Robertson – Born January 24, 1895 - joined the Omega Chapter, April 27, 1987. We light a candle to represent her Ray of Vitality and Growth. She was a music teacher. She was later an Assistant Principal. Through her travels across the United States with an educational company, Agnes formed connections with many educators and realized through these discussions that educators needed a way to come together, to get to know each other. Her Ray of Vitality is evident in the remarks by Former Executive Administrator Opal Lunsford, “Agnes was 24 hours a day, eight days a week, Alpha Delta Kappa.” She states further that, “Agnes was the promoter…” Her Ray of Growth is demonstrated in her efforts to grow Alpha Delta Kappa. She carried initiation materials to install new chapters in the trunk of her car. She would begin about 3 chapters in a state and leave them with field representatives she had trained to assist the state in developing more chapters on its own. Ms. Lunsford also shared that even after Agnes retired, she continued to promote Alpha Delta Kappa until she joined the Omega Chapter. Marie Neal- Born November 16, 1898… Joined the Omega Chapter, May 20, 1969. We light a candle to represent her Ray of Passion and Energy. She received her teaching certification in high school history and economics. Her Ray of Passion began with her experience in her collegiate sorority. This enhanced her belief that a fraternal organization could create a strong bond between women. As she traveled with her husband, Thomas H. Neal, to teachers meetings where he represented a book company, her passion and concern for educators deepened. Her comments support this: “Teachers came in (to the meetings) , listened to speeches and went their way. We talked about how they needed something to draw them together and to enhance their professional attitudes and attributes.” Marie’s Ray of Energy emerges with her efforts with Agnes to begin new chapters. She continued to serve Alpha Delta Kappa as Executive Secretary-Treasurer from 1947 until she joined the Omega Chapter. Marion Southhall-Born July 27, 1897… Joined the Omega Chapter, May 16, 1971. We light a candle to represent her Ray of Loyalty and Creativity. She received her teaching credentials and was employed by a local publishing house where she was in charge of proof reading and accounting. With her special leadership capabilities, we witness her Ray of Loyalty as she served as the first National VicePresident and head of the Executive Board. It is after Marion joined the Omega chapter, that through her children Carolyn and Richard Southall, we see the Ray of Creativity. From their mother’s loyalty to our sorority, they were able to creatively compose our official Alpha Delta Kappa song, “The Lamp of Alpha Delta

Kappa”. Hattie Poppino- Born February 11, 1897…Joined the Omega Chapter September 22, 1986. We light a candle to represent her Ray of Purpose and Direction. She taught commerce and library and later became a high school librarian. Her experience with various professional organizations and her teaching experience fostered her Ray of Purpose and Direction. We give her much credit for working to develop the policies and aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. Furthermore, we see life giving inspiration in the chartering of North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa, April 3, 1954. We light a candle to represent our Ray of Honor and Pride in 58 years of giving. Fiftyeight years of service. We shine in our support of Camp Carefree and the Ronald McDonald House. We shine with pride in providing, as a state, in the giving of $10,000 dollars in student scholarships and $2,000 in the North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa Grant for an educator who is a member of our sorority. In 2010, we are proud to have added the Mary Ruth Heil, “Excellence in Action Awards”, to provide mini-grants to NC Public school students in grades 6-12. We honor our founders by continuing to preserve the legacy of our sorority through our continued service. We light a candle to represent our Ray of Individuality and Will power. We seek to celebrate our diversity and enrich our understanding of and connection to our global community with the North Carolina Executive Board establishing a World Understanding Committee. We further encourage each chapter to add a World Understanding Committee. Our diversity, our individuality enriches our sisterhood. We hold strongly to the Ray of Will Power, as we move forward in an ever changing world with the determination to preserve our history and secure our legacy by continually examining our efforts and initiating changes which will strengthen North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa for the future. “Hold high the torch You did not light its glow ’Twas given you by other hands, you know. ’Tis yours to keep it burning bright, Yours to pass on when you no more need light; For there are other feet that we must guide And other forms go marching by our side . . .” Thank you for choosing to be a part of North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa. May the warmth of Life Giving Inspiration radiate from each of us during this biennium. Alpha Delta Kappa’s Founders’ Day is observed each year in the fall throughout our International Sorority. Founders’ Day Ceremonies may be traditional or creative, and ours is a little of both. It combines Alpha Delta Kappa history with this year’s Founders’ Day theme “SMILE”. We have taken inspiration and words from the many Founders’ Day ceremonies available on the ADK website and acknowledge the help of our ADK sisters in the creation of today’s ceremony. Fifty-seven years ago in the state of Missouri, four women, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino saw the need for and created an organization which recognized and supported the professional efforts of outstanding women educators. These women of vision created the organization known as Alpha Delta Kappa which united the women members through the common goals of service and educational excellence, providing inspiration and worldwide understanding. As an organization, Alpha Delta Kappa is committed to SERVICE to others. We promote SERVICE educational and charitable projects, and our altruism is known around the world. Each year sisters give many thousands of dollars and an almost equal number of

hours to local and state causes. Whether they are making sandwiches for a food bank or running a pancake breakfast to raise funds for disabled children, Alpha Delta Kappa members are ready to help. Through sponsoring of scholarships and cooperation with worthy community programs related to education, we have made our name synonymous with SERVICE. As a fraternal organization we thrive on the friendships that we make and the support that we each give and receive. The experiences that bind us together as a sisterhood provide the MEMORIES that we share at meetings, conferences, conventions and Founders’ Day celebrations. When disaster strikes or there is a personal loss, there is always a sister to depend on. In times of sorrow or happiness, sisters share our MEMORIES. I stands for INSPIRATION which we get from each other, not envying the successes of a sister, but being inspired by them and delighting in being a sister to someone who has made an outstanding contribution in our chosen profession. When we are initiated, we make a promise. We make a commitment that we will uphold the IDEALS of Alpha IDEALS Delta Kappa. We commit ourselves to promoting excellence in education, on every level. We vow to strive for the goals set by our International executive board, our region, our S/P/N and our local chapter. We say that we will uphold our sisters in this sorority and support them in accordance with the principles of Alpha Delta Kappa. As members of Alpha Delta Kappa, these high IDEALS are IDEALS within our reach.

We light this candle for Agnes Shipman Robertson, and in remembrance of the ideal of LOYALTY. The bright, steady light from this star gives us the guidance to cast our doubt, jealousy and prejudice from our lives, so that we may glow with sincerity and integrity. L stands for Love; the love of learning and love of the learners. As educators, this was a quality that our Founders saw in sisters. Seeing this in others inspires all sisters to make contributions to our profession. The second E is for Enthusiasm -- enthusiasm shared among sisters grows into action. It was through the enthusiasm of our Founders that Alpha Delta Kappa has grown into the great sorority we have today. Enthusiasm is infectious. E is for exploring the abundance of resources we have within our sorority. Marion Southall, an educator, proofreader and accountant, and Hattie Poppino, a teacher and a librarian joined in to promote commitment to educational excellence, personal and professional growth, and collectively channel their energies toward the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world. Through networking with women in the newly founded Sorority, many resources among our members have been made available to all our sisters.

ALPHA DELTA KAPPA FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY

The PROMISE of Alpha Delta Kappa Joanne Bebel, New Jersey Iota

Need: Seven picture frames – each containing one large letter of the word P-R-O-M-I-S-E, seven candles, and seven past S/P/N presidents (PP’s). Frames should be face down on table and placed by an unlit candle. NARRATOR (1st Past President) What are we celebrating today? To steal the words of Sophia from the Golden Girls, “Picture it. Missouri, 1947.” The country was in a state of celebration. Our men were back from the war to end all wars. The women who had taken over the jobs in our country were leaving them to return to the home and raise the children who were later known as the “Baby Boomers.” Harry Truman was president. The Academy Awards went to Gentleman’s Agreement, and movie idols Ronald Colman and Loretta Young. The hot songs were: “Golden Earrings,” “Chi-Baba Chi-Baba,” “Almost Like Being In Love.” The sports pages touted the winnings of Joe Lewis and the NY Yankees. The headlines covered the creation of The Air Force being established as a separate service. Rockefeller donates land for the UN Center. A gallon of gasoline was a whopping .15¢. Milk, .78¢ a gallon. Bread, .13¢ a loaf. Gold was $35 dollars an ounce. The Dow Jones hit a high of 177. A new house cost $6,650. A new car of $1,290 took a big chunk out of an average salary of $2,854. The latest inventions: the long playing record and the transistor. 2nd Past President reads while 1st PP turns up frame to reveal the letter P and lights the candle.

What possible relevance could an organization created in 1947, have to do with us in this year? We have only to look as far as our PURPOSES PURPOSES: • The recognition of outstanding women educators • The fraternal fellowship among women in the teaching profession • The promotion of educational and charitable projects, sponsorship of scholarships, and cooperation with worthy community programs related to education • The contribution to world understanding and goodwill through an international fellowship of women educators. In answer to the question of why are we here today: We are here to celebrate the visions of our Founders, and to renew our commitment to the purposes for which this organization was created. 3rd Past President reads while 2nd PP turns up frame to reveal the letter R and lights the candle. In August of 1947 we REALIZED the dream of our Founders with the granting, by the state of Missouri, of a charter to our organization, incorporating it as an Honorary Sorority allowed to organize chapters in every state and elsewhere. It was from that dream, from that first chapter, that we have grown to an organization of over 1,600 chapters with membership of nearly 50,000 women educators across not only the United States, but also in Canada, Mexico, Australia, Puerto Rico and Jamaica. 4th Past President reads while 3rd PP turns up frame to reveal the letter O and lights the candle. As our sorority grew to include educators from all levels and locations, our conferences, workshops, and speakers have given us the chance to expand our professional talents, enhance our skills and increase our personal knowledge. One of our goals for this biennium is to provide our members with professional development programs. The scholarships available to members also are a continuation of the vision of our Founders. Alpha Delta Kappa has served its members by providing OPPORTUNITIES from which to grow. 5th Past President reads while 4th PP turns up frame to reveal the letter M and lights the candle. As a fraternal organization we thrive on the friendships that we make and the support that we each give and receive. The experiences that bind us together as a sisterhood provide the MEMORIES that we share at meetings, conferences, conventions and Founders’ Day celebrations. Sisters that we may only encounter once every two years at the International Convention become fast friends while those with whom we interact on a regular basis become more family than friends. Whether disaster strikes or there is a personal loss, there is always a sister to depend on. In times of sorrow or happiness, sisters share our MEMORIES MEMORIES.

6th Past President reads while 5th PP turns up frame to reveal the letter I and lights the candle. When we are initiated, we make a promise. We make a commitment that we will uphold the IDEALS of Alpha Delta Kappa. We commit ourselves to promoting excellence in education, on every level. We vow to strive for the goals set by our International executive board, our region, our S/P/N and our local chapter. We say that we will uphold our sisters in this sorority and support them in accordance with the principles of Alpha Delta Kappa. As members of Alpha Delta Kappa, these high IDEALS are within our reach. 7th Past President reads while 6th PP turns up frame to reveal the letter S and lights the candle. As an organization, Alpha Delta Kappa is committed to SERVICE to others. We promote educational and charitable projects, and our altruism is known around the world. Each year sisters give many thousands of dollars and an almost equal number of hours to local and state causes. Whether they are making sandwiches for a food bank or running a pancake breakfast to raise funds for disabled children, Alpha Delta Kappa members are ready to help. Through sponsoring of scholarships and cooperation with worthy community programs related to education, we have made our name synonymous with SERVICE SERVICE. S/P/N President reads while 7th PP turns up frame to reveal the letter E and lights the candle. EXPERIENCES that fill life with joy complete our International theme: (Read current International theme). Our Founders defined our PURPOSE, they REALIZED their dream, we have been provided with and accepted OPPORTUNITIES for professional leadership and growth, creating MEMORIES in the process, upholding the IDEALS of sisterhood, fulfilling our goal of SERVICE, and creating EXPERIENCES to cherish. Today we also honor (number) of our sisters who have lived that promise for 25 years and (number) of our sisters who have lived that promise for 50 years. Will the following people please come forward (and stand in front of the table) as I call your names? (Read chapter and names of new Silver and Golden) We honor these ladies as they celebrate 25 and 50 years of service to Alpha Delta Kappa. To you, your sisters present the guard of a Silver Sister or Golden Sister, to be worn with pride, as it is given with pride, for the contributions that you have made in the name of Alpha Delta Kappa during those years. Congratulations upon reaching these milestones. At this time, I ask that we all join hands for the Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.

FOUNDERS’ DAY SERVICE Written by Rose Marie Flory, Oregon Epsilon Chapter Our ideals are like stars; we do not always reach them, but they guide us and lead us. In all sorts of weather the star is the mariner’s faithful friend. Stars, too, are guide posts. They attract the magnetic needle. And in human affairs all great achievement is due to some attracting ideal. If you follow the ideal long enough it will guide you past siren shores to true treasures. Stars are to be wished upon by children, and to be put in the eyes of young lovers. Today, as we celebrate Founders’ Day, we think of the ideals set forth by four women, who, with stars in their eyes, accomplished their dreams in the realization of Alpha Delta Kappa. Let us light the topmost candle for Alpha Delta Kappa . . . the star we will continue to set our sights on. We light a candle in honor of Marion Southall, and in remembrance of the ideal of VISION. Vision . . . the star that beckons us when we become discouraged and fretful. Though clouds may sometimes cause this star to pass out of view, it will not be obliterated because it is our faith in God. We light this candle in honor of Marie Neal, and in Remembrance of the ideal SERVICE. We continue to group for this star because we always rise with unabated courage to be of help to others. We light this candle in honor of Hattie Poppino, and in remembrance of the ideal of FRIENDSHIP. Friendship is the star we hold as precious. Go where you will; it is faithfully with you. This star will shine brighter than ever when nurtured with love and attention. We light this candle for Agnes Shipman Robertson, and in remembrance of the ideal of LOYALTY. The bright, steady light from this star gives us the guidance to cast our doubt, jealousy and prejudice from our lives, so that we may glow with sincerity and integrity. Let us continue to keep our candles aglow so that they, like the stars, will always be bright, as we work with patient heart and hand for ourselves, and for others.

Roots of Tradition…Wings to Soar Founders’ Day Program October is the month we celebrate the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. The International theme is “Roots of Tradition…Wings to Soar”, and the logo is a majestic oak with a dove taking flight from its stately branches. Alpha Delta Kappa was founded in 1947 by Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino. These women shared a dream of an organization for recognition of and fellowship with outstanding women educators. We can compare their dreams to acorns that are carefully planted and spring up as a tiny oak that after years of careful tending will become the mighty oak depicted in our logo. We meet here today in sweet fellowship with our sister chapter for two purposes. First, we recognize and cling to the traditions, represented by the ROOTS of the oak, initiated and planted by our founders. R is for RECOGNITION and the first O is for OUTSTANDING. We wish to recognize outstanding educators who are committed to educational excellence and personal and professional growth. Alpha Delta Kappa sisters make a difference in their community and in the lives of their students. The second O is for OPPORTUNITIES. Alpha Delta Kappa provides opportunities for its members through scholarships and professional development. We provide opportunities for our communities through the numerous altruistic projects carefully planned and lovingly implemented by our chapters. T is for TEACHING. We know the joy that comes from teaching, and we treasure the time we spend with our students as we help them grow in character and in wisdom. S is for SUPPORT. Alpha Delta Kappa sisters support each other through the hills and the valleys that dot the landscape of our lives. Even though we may see our sisters only once a month, we always feel their love and support and know a sister is nearby when we are burdened. The second purpose for our meeting today is to recognize the need to build on our founders’ traditions and renew our commitment to reach out to our sisters, students, and communities. We continue to move forward, growing and learning as educators, just as the dove with its WINGS soars high above the oak. W is for WORLD Understanding. As an important part of Alpha Delta Kappa’s mission statement, one of our purposes is to contribute to world understanding, goodwill, and peace through international fellowship of women educators united in the ideals of education.

I is for INNOVATION. Just as our founders were innovative in the creation of Alpha Delta Kappa, we strive to find new ways to support and inspire our sisters, students, and communities. We are constantly searching for new opportunities to enrich our lives and the lives of others through altruistic projects. N is for NURTURING. As you look around at your sisters in this room, you will realize that we are all nurturers. We cultivate and encourage the best qualities to emerge from our students, fellow-sisters, and those with whom we work everyday. G is for GENUINE. One definition of genuine is “sincere and honest”. Alpha Delta Kappa sisters do not work for recognition but rather work because we have a genuine desire to help others and leave the world a better place than we found it. S is for SERVICE. We show our love for others by serving. We serve our school by promoting high standards for education, our students by the patient and loving instruction we give, and our community with our many endeavors to meet various needs. As we meet today, may we remember the “roots” of tradition that grew from the acorns of ideals planted by our founders, and may we continue to use our “wings” to soar to new heights in our journey to promote excellence in education and in serving others. Marie Neal, one of Alpha Delta Kappa’s founders, said: “If there is such a thing as a philosophy of life, I would recommend to anyone to keep busy with worthwhile projects, look for the good in people, have a genuine love in your heart for all humanity, be able to see another’s point of view, and never get so involved in your own ideas that you are not able to see the viewpoint of the youth of America.”

ALPHA DELTA KAPPA FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY

Post September 11, 2001 Founders’ Day Joanne Bebel, NJ Iota

Need: 5 candles on ceremony table, 4 past state presidents, at least one candle at each table

While trying to prepare a Founders’ Day Ceremony and Celebration for today, I had an extremely difficult time. Both personal and international events were so overwhelming that I could not find a context into which anything else could fit. It wasn’t until Tuesday morning, while preparing to speak with prospective members, that I was able to do so. The context that I found was the list of purposes for which four women established a sorority and our own membership. The current cliché is that September 11th was the day that changed the world. That cliché is just too broad in scope for me to assimilate its meaning. I need to view it within my own perspective and experiences. For anyone else that was looking, September 11th was the day that educators demonstrated how vast a role they play in society. It began in lower Manhattan when students witnessed – outside the classroom windows – the explosion in the towers – the very towers where some of their parents worked. Amidst the visual horror and chaos on the street, teachers maintained an order that safely led classroom after classroom, building after building, out of harm’s way. Many educators in New York, in New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, Los Angles and other places in around our country, spent that morning, afternoon and evening waiting with students to learn the fate of their parents. That was only the beginning. As schools reopened, programs were already in place for crisis counseling, grief counseling and educators were called upon to explain something they themselves could not comprehend, and help in a healing process for which they themselves had not yet healed. It was educators who were called upon to apply their skills in the teaching of cultural diversity and acceptance to offset the strong bias that such an event can generate. We grieve for the three teachers from Washington, D.C. who accompanied their students on a plane that ultimately crashed into the pentagon. The job description for today’s teacher is not the same job description for which I signed a contract 31 years ago. It has been greatly expanded. Those active in education need our support and encouragement to continue the great job that they are doing. Looking at the purposes of our sorority and its application for our membership today:

1. The recognition of outstanding women educators and promotion of high standards of education. Look at your colleagues. In an age when accountability no longer means accountability to students and community but rather accountability to politicians, we each need to take an active role in supporting and honoring a colleague with an offer to membership. 2. Fraternal fellowship. It’s a beautiful weekend and we could all use a day to sleep in and relax at home. Why did you come here today? How many of you already talked current events today? Is there a colleague of yours who would have benefited from being here today also? 3. The promotion of educational and charitable projects. Today we have with us the recipient of our Joan McCabe Scholarship. Many of us have also brought baby items to contribute to one of our three state charities. The raffles that we participated in today raised money for chapter altruistic and scholarship projects. The Race For the Cure that we will be participating in on October 28th goes toward our International altruistic project – the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Don’t you have a colleague that would be proud to contribute also? 4. And lastly, the contribution to world understanding. Following September 11, the International Web Site at www.alphadeltakappa.org featured messages from Alpha Delta Kappa members around the world related to September 11th. If you have never truly felt the meaning of membership in an International Organization, consider the notes that were posted to you from your sisters in Ontario, Mexico, Queensland Australia, Nova Scotia, England, Manitoba and states around this country. There was a note from a member who came to this country for the International Convention this summer and while here made a trip to New York City and had her picture taken at the twin towers, and its meaning to her now. How these women, our Founders, created a sorority in 1947 years ago that is still viable and relevant today is a credit to their vision. THERE IS context in which this organization fits into our current events. It is appropriate that we honor each of them by name; Hattie Poppino (candle lit) Marion Southall (candle lit) Marie Neal (candle lit) Agnes Shipman Robertson (candle lit) There is a candle on each table. Will one person at the table pick it up. I ask each of our past state presidents representing New Jersey’s heritage to take the light from each candle of our Founders and pass that light to a candle at one of the tables. I ask the person accepting the light to light the candle at the next table. As the light passes around the room, let it be a symbol of the expansion of their vision from one chapter to over 1,700 other chapters.

(Flame passes around room) As the light returns to our Founders, we light the final candle for the future of our sorority and its purposes. As we now extinguish the candles at the tables, be it with the personal promise of honoring our Founders by expanding their vision and working to personally bring in one new member. I hope to receive an invitation to visit each of your chapters at your next initiation to help welcome these members into sisterhood. I again thank our own past state presidents.

ALPHA DELTA KAPPA FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY

“An Alpha Delta Kappa Gift for You” By Paula Raeke, 2002-2004 Texas State President

(This is a ceremony using 5 nesting boxes. I found some wonderful ones at Garden Ridge Pottery. When it is over, they can be used as gift boxes. After the last box is put inside the others, someone will need to put the lids on inside the biggest box, close it and tie a ribbon around all of them. The bigger the bow, the better. If no nesting boxes are available, then one big box could be used with little gift boxes decorated in Alpha Delta Kappa colors to go inside it.) There are many gifts for you on this table today. We shall put them together and see what happens. You may be surprised to find they all fit together in a way that you will never forget. Let us Share the Gift of Alpha Delta Kappa. (participants can hold each box as they talk, or set it on the table) (biggest box: take off lid and set it on the table) The first gift of Alpha Delta Kappa is the gift of fellowship as a member that is like no other professional organization — the life-long friendships that can develop that cross chapter, state, provincial and national boundaries form bonds across miles. Share your gift of Alpha Delta Kappa by inviting a teacher to visit your chapter and get to know her better. We Share the Gift of fellowship in Alpha Delta Kappa. (next biggest box: set it inside the biggest one with lid off) Participation and leadership in our organization as well as our profession is the second gift. With the growth of personal/professional relationships as we serve one another with whatever gifts each of us has received is a result of Alpha Delta Kappa membership. Leadership skills are developed to benefit our educational area as well as the community in which we live. Most members find they are excelling because of confidence in their leadership abilities. Experience as a participant in Alpha Delta Kappa says much for itself. We Share the Gifts of leadership and participation in Alpha Delta Kappa. (third box: goes inside the other two with lid off) Next, you will find the gift of altruism — not only in scholarships given from chapters up through International levels, but in acts and works of kindness and caring. These acts are multiplied many times over because working as a group can certainly make an impact much more that working alone. Who would believe that approximately 50,000 teachers could donate over $9 million for others?

We Share the Gift of altruism in Alpha Delta Kappa. (fourth box: goes inside the others with lid off) We can’t leave out the gift of world understanding. Members must become acquainted with sisters of various cultures, races and ethnic backgrounds. Offering the International Teacher Education scholarships over the years has been a boost for our world understanding. Seeing those young women return to their country and be successful makes it all worthwhile. Having contact during International conventions with the members of different countries was very successful. We Share the Gift of world understanding in Alpha Delta Kappa. (smallest box: keep lid on it and set it inside the others) The smallest gift — but one of the biggest gifts of our sorority is that of our heritage. The four Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa — Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Hattie Poppino and Marion Southall, had vision in a big way for us. They wanted a sorority that would recognize outstanding women in the field of education. They gave us motivation to recruit new members when they set up the purposes of goals of the sorority. They gave us the encouragement to help others in any way we can. They gave us the dedication of being strong members in an organization that supports good leaders and educators. Let us salute our Founders — Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Hattie Poppino and Marion Southall by Sharing the Gifts of our heritage of Alpha Delta Kappa today. (Put other lids on boxes and close the last one. Tie a big bow around the whole set.)

(Closing prayer, thought or meditation)

Founders’ Day Ceremony Created by Paula Raeke and Patti Krause, Texas Alpha Delta Kappa "Star light, star bright, First star I see tonight. I wish I may, I wish I might Have this wish I wish tonight." Just as children recite Mother Goose rhymes, we have all wished upon a star at some time or other. It’s usually when the first star, Venus, comes out at night to catch our attention that we remember those stargazing moments. But the heavens are splendid with thousands of those points of light. Today, as Alpha Delta Kappa sisters, we are attuned to the stars as just small segments of our universe of promise. In the 1999-2001 International theme: “21st Century: Universe of Promise,” the logo depicts five small stars encompassed in orbits reaching from the large five pointed star to circulate around the Alpha Delta Kappa triangle. The delicate orbits carry the five ideals that will lead Alpha Delta Kappa into the new millennium. We salute our Founders today through those five ideals. Our Founders were women of vision whose wishes to create Alpha Delta Kappa have begun as wishes on stars filled with hope for our future. The first candle represents the first star in our universe of promise – the universe of awareness of human needs and resources. Our Founder, Agnes Shipman Robertson, became aware through her frequent travels as an educator that there was a need for an organization to facilitate teachers coming together and getting to know each other personally and socially. She was determined to make others aware of good teachers through recognition. We honor Agnes as an inspiration to everyone demonstrating her leadership as the guiding star of Alpha Delta Kappa. This second candle lights the orbit called the universe of knowledge for a better understanding of our multi-diverse world. Marie Neal, our second Founder, also wished upon a star for a fraternal organization that could create a strong bond between women – an idea so important to the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. Her role in the founding and management, indeed, helps us connect our multi-diverse world. We light this candle to honor Marie as our leader of unity holding together this vast galaxy known as Alpha Delta Kappa.

Marion Southall, our third Founder, served as the first National Vice-President and Chairman of the Executive Board in the early years. We light this third candle in her honor. Her star twinkles in the universe of heritage, learning and remembering why we are here. Every time we sing "The Lamp Of Alpha Delta Kappa," which was composed by her children, her spirit shines like the North Star leading the way for our heritage. This candle salutes Marion and helps us to remember the burning glow from the lamp of knowledge. Alpha Delta Kappa soared in the early years because of Hattie Poppino, our fourth Founder, who was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. Her wish could easily have been for the universe of communication in this network. Just as our own star, the sun, is constantly shining, the need for never-ending communication lights the path of our sorority. this faithful beam extends through the different levels of Alpha Delta Kappa – International, state/provincial/national, district, chapter, and individual member. We honor Hattie as the steadfast organizer to chart our future as members of Alpha Delta Kappa by lighting the fourth candle. One candle is left, standing single in this universe, yet not alone. The warm glow of sisterhood, which we hold so dear in our sorority, fills our hearts today as we reflect on our past and expect greatness in our future. "Twinkle, twinkle little star. How I wonder what you are. Up above the world so high, Like a diamond in the sky." One little light, one little star, one little sister at a time – we are the sisterhood of Alpha Delta Kappa. We light this last candle as sisters because we are designing the future together. Let us cherish and honor our Founders always. Even as the sun rises and the stars disappear from the daytime sky, we realize those same stars in our universe are there waiting to present themselves every night again, as constant reminders of our "Universe of Promise." Your loyal sisters are there waiting to reappear in the sisterhood of Alpha Delta Kappa in the same way. Because of you, my sisters, and the vision of our Founders, all of our wishes on stars have come true. This candle glows with the love of the "special sisterhood that we hold so dear. And so, arm-in-arm, hand-in-hand, heart-to-heart, we embrace the “21st Century: Universe of Promise.” Please rise and sing the Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa as the closing of this ceremony.

A Tea Party (A Founders’ Day Ceremony) 2010 •

For years and years, across many cultures, a cup of tea has held special meaning. An ancient Chinese proverb states, “Better to be deprived of food for three days, than tea for one.”

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Craig Mortenson, in his book Three Cups of Tea, explains the importance of tea in Pakistan and Afghanistan: “Here we drink three cups of tea to do business; the first you are a stranger, the second you become a friend, and the third you join our family and for our family we are prepared to do anything…”

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The British love of tea takes us back to the 1600s as tea trade began. Starting first with the upper class, the love of tea and a specific “tea time” spread quickly to all classes and to this day takes many forms.

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In our society when we get together for a meeting, a study group or a planning session, a cup of tea or coffee is often part of the gathering. It just seems like the thing to do.

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In 1947, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marian Southhall, Marie Neal and Hattie Poppino used “teas” as ways of gathering women educators to promote closer professional ties. They developed groups called chapters to promote commitment to educational excellence, personal and professional growth and collectively channeled their energies toward the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world.

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Thus, Alpha Delta Kappa began and today we celebrate our chapter as well as those in all fifty states, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Australia and Puerto Rico.

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We celebrate our members and the myriad of contributions to education in the classroom and out.

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We celebrate outstanding Altruism in many, many ways especially our contributions over the years to St. Jude’s Hospital and Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

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We celebrate our Scholarships for students from other cultures as well as our own members.

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We celebrate our Foundation, which will carry these programs and others into the future.

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We celebrate World Understanding learning as we go about other ways of life, education and making the world a better place.

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We celebrate our Founders who had the vision to recognize and support women educators.

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Join us now as we salute these four women. Whether it be with a cup of tea, a mug of coffee, a bottle of water or a Coke. We salute them. May their vision be instilled in us as we look forward to Alpha Delta Kappa’s future in our chapter, state, province or nation, region and on the international level. Help all of us to take advantage of the opportunities and the friendships which membership in Alpha Delta Kappa brings each one of us.

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Let us share this fellowship with each other as we sing “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.”

Submitted by Jan Page Illinois Upsilon

Founders’ Day Celebration (First Reader) We come to this banquet in celebration of our Diamond Jubilee, the 60th anniversary of the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. Diamond comes from the Greek word, adamas, meaning unconquerable and enduring, a perfect description of our Founders and their dream. When we pledged ourselves as sisters in this sorority, we became a part of their dream, founded on friendship and love. We have found in our association not only love and friendship, but also opportunities to serve as a source of strength, inspiration, and conviction to our sisters, students and communities. (Second Reader) Our Founders, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marion Southall, Marie Neal and Hattie Poppino, saw their dream come alive in August of 1947. Everyone felt that all was well in the world; World War II had ended and peace and prosperity prevailed. This organization was created in those peaceful times to give recognition to the individual teacher as well as to gain recognition for the entire teaching profession. Even though times have changed, our new logo shows that we still value the individual teachers and their teaching profession. (First Reader) We honor our Founders for their vision of an organization that would recognize and support teachers in their individual pursuits of personal and professional excellence. Their vision created an organization where women can find strength and inspiration not just from other “teachers,” but from sisters who share their same desire for excellence. (Second Reader) It is because of our Founder’s actions that we are members of an organization which promotes the highest standards of excellence in education. Their nurturing spirits, a desire to serve others, have produced excellence in altruism as well. In the biennium, 2005 – 2007, AΔK contributed over eleven million dollars to charities and scholarships and nearly two million hours of service in our communities. Actions can speak louder than words. (First Reader) These four women were innovative and unconquerable in their efforts to create Alpha Delta Kappa. Now it is our turn to be innovative and create ways to support and inspire our sisters, our students and our communities toward excellence in education and life. (Second Reader) We are the diamonds of this celebration. We must endure in our pursuit of excellence. It is up to each of us to be unconquerable and stand up for what we know to be right and just.

Five people stand up in front of group. Speakers to one side and other three to other side. X X

X X

X Blue – reader Red – logo demonstrator When the reader refers to the “new logo,” one of the three holds up the large board showing the outline of the logo with the flowers in the middle. When the reader says “vision,” one of the three puts the word on the board in the correct place. When the reader says “actions,” one of the three puts the word “action” on the board in the correct place. When the reader says “innovative,” one of the three puts the word “innovation” in the correct place. Now “Alpha Delta Kappa” is put on the board in the correct place before the reader says the last paragraph. —Colorado Alpha Gamma Chapter

Vision, Action, Innovation 2007 Delaware Founders’ Day Program Leader: Vision, Action, Innovation Those three words on the 2007-2009 International Logo were written by Ann Hudson, our International President, but would have been just as appropriate sixty years ago when Alpha Delta Kappa was incorporated. In 1947 the VISION of 4 women was put into ACTION, and what they created was quite an INNOVATION. At that time outstanding women educators were rarely recognized for their accomplishments; they could not ‘network’ with other professionals to develop excellence in education; and world understanding was a new post war concept in the United States. Women were expected to do altruistic projects, and they enjoyed fellowship with their friends, but not within an honorary organization like we have today. To us in the twenty-first century, the four women who founded Alpha Delta Kappa may look very prim and proper in their photographs, but their ideas were fresh and new; their energy was relentless, and their enthusiasm for their dream was enormous. They were upwardly mobile; they developed a data base of outstanding educators- the likes of which had not been seen before, and they did it all in an era when women were rarely able to be on the cutting edge of anything. Agnes Shipman Robertson, the first Grand President of Alpha Delta Kappa, was Reader 1: the visionary, whose idea for a sorority took 25 years to be accomplished. She was a music teacher and an assistant principal, and later on she worked for an educational book company. She traveled around the country with her AΔK materials in the trunk of her car, meeting teachers in all corners of the USA and installing chapters as she went. Her friends said she was ‘feisty, charming, gracious, and would not take NO for an answer’. Aren’t we lucky today that she wouldn’t? Reader 2: Marie Neal, whose field was high school history and economics, was the first Executive Secretary-Treasurer of Alpha Delta Kappa. She met with teachers during her travels with her husband, who worked closely with the public schools. Her management skills forged the beginnings of our sorority. Marion Southall was the first Vice President and head of the Executive Board of Reader 3: Alpha Delta Kappa. Marion’s family was also very involved in the sorority. Her husband, an attorney, acted as general counsel to Alpha Delta Kappa, and her children, Carolyn and Richard, composed our song, “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.” Hattie Poppino was a teacher and school librarian for many years in Kansas. She Reader 4: was a member of the first Executive Board of Alpha Delta Kappa, and her classroom experience was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of our sorority. Leader: Today, as we honor these four women, we look back at their VISIONS; we applaud their ACTIONS, and we are truly blessed by their INNOVATIONS for women educators. Now let’s all look ahead. What will we see for Alpha Delta Kappa in the next 5-1020-60 years? Will our visions and actions bring about innovations to enrich the lives of women educators of the future? If we are true to our principles of “all for one and one for all” we will. Submitted by Peggy Keay, Delaware State President-Elect

Founders’ Day Ceremony, “Teachers and Apples” Washington Beta Chapter September 25, 2004 written by Ginny Wortman

Sister #1 Alpha Delta Kappa’s Founders’ Day is observed each year in the fall throughout our International Sorority. Founders’ Day Ceremonies may be traditional or creative, and ours is a little of both. It combines Alpha Delta Kappa history with the symbolic relation of Teachers and Apples. Fifty-seven years ago in the state of Missouri, four women, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino saw the need for and created an organization which recognized and supported the professional efforts of outstanding women educators. These women of vision created the organization known as Alpha Delta Kappa which united the women members through common goals, educational excellence, altruism, and worldwide understanding. I place 4 apples into our fruit basket representing the vision of our 4 Alpha Delta Kappa founders. Sister #2 Fifty-one years ago Washington State chartered its first three chapters: Alpha Chapter in Spokane, our own Beta Chapter in Seattle, and Gamma Chapter also in Seattle. All three of these chapters have already celebrated their Golden Anniversaries with special celebrations and remembrances. I place 3 apples into the basket representing the 3 Washington State Golden Chapters. I also place 1 apple into the basket representing the dedication of all charter members of Washington State’s Golden Chapters, as we honor our own charter member, Marjory Devers. Sister #3 The symbol of Washington State and teachers is the “apple”. Washington State has many varieties of apples: Braeburn, Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith, Jonagold, Pink Lady, Cameo, Golden Delicious, and the ever popular and well known Red Delicious. It has been said that “an Apple a day keeps the doctor away”. Apples keep us healthy, providing benefits of: lowering blood cholesterol; improving digestions; reducing the risk of stroke/heart attack, lung/colon/and prostrate cancer, type II diabetes and asthma; as well as providing fiber aiding with weight loss, while also being a delicious snack. While apples help to give us healthy bodies, teachers help to educate us with invaluable information for our future lives. Teachers are friends, mentors, leaders, educators, instructors, and parental substitutes. Both apples and teachers have their own individual characteristics and qualities which are enriching and nourishing, and mellow and mild, tart and tangy, crisp and firm, sweet and juicy, classy and unique, plus versatile and all-purpose! I place 2 apples into the basket representing all the delicious varieties of Washington State apples and for the talented, valuable, and dedicated teachers we are known for!

Sister #4 This symbolic basket of apples could be eaten as snacks, combined in salads, cooked, or baked into the ever popular Apple Pie. I suggest you use them in a special Alpha Delta Kappa recipe. Combine the apples with….. 2 cups of friendly words 2 level cups of understanding 4 heaping teaspoons of time and patience A pinch of warm personality A dash of humor Cook together on the front burner, but keep the temperature low. Season to taste with the spice of life. Serve in individual molds with encouragement, inspiration, and instruction. Share generously with others always upholding the personal, professional, and educational standards of Alpha Delta Kappa.

Founders’ Day Program 2009 International Theme: Vision, Action, Innovation Southeast Region Theme: Honor, Provide, Nurture Kentucky Theme: WINGS for Tomorrow Women Educators Involved in Nurturing, Giving, and Supporting Our founders, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino were 4 educators who had VISION. That vision led to ACTION and INNOVATIVE ideas to promote a closer professionalism among outstanding women Educators. They knew that women needed a BOND and they wanted to HONOR women educators in a special way, and give them opportunities for personal and professional growth. They were the NUTURERS, giving of their time and talents to encourage teachers to come together to start Alpha Delta Kappa chapters all over the country. Agnes Shipman Robertson was the main nurturer and promoter. Opal Lunsford, former Executive Administrator told of Agnes driving across the country to facilitate the birth of the organization. “Agnes was 24 hours a day, eight days a week, Alpha Delta Kappa,” she said. Agnes “always had visions,” Opal said. “Every night she would come up with something new. She would come back from trips loaded with new ideas. She would pass these ideas to staff to implement so that she could then go on to other things. She was a great thinker as she drove. She thought of ways to work things, ways to grow. Marie Neal was the supporter and provided a strong bond with Agnes. They were very good friends. Opal said.” Marie kept the records and handled the money in her office at home.” She used her time and talents to help manage the organization, and nurture its growth. She became the executive secretary-treasurer of ADK. Marie and her husband Tom would often go with Agnes to install chapters. Opal recalls, “Agnes carried the initiation material in the trunk of her car. They would take cookies and get punch for the initiation ceremonies.”

Marion Southall was interested in that bond for educators and she assisted Marie in her role. She used her talents and abilities to provide leadership and become the first National Vice-President and head of the Executive Board. The official song” The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa” was composed by Carolyn and Richard Southall, children of Marion. Richard also wrote the music for “There is a Sorority in Our Town” as well. Hattie Poppino taught commerce and library at Garnett and Chanute, then became a librarian in Kansas City. She was a member of several professional organizations and with her vision and teaching experience was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. She was a great leader and supporter serving on the first Executive Board. These 4 women were the WINGS for Tomorrow. They were like the life cycle of the butterfly. They were like the embryo developing a new idea, a new organization. They were like the caterpillar or larva in its growing stage as they started new chapters to grow the organization. Then like the pupa looking for a final nesting place, their home became Kansas City, Missouri. And from there the butterfly took flight and on August 13, 1947, our four founders, Agnes Shipman, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino signed the incorporation agreement and Alpha Delta Kappa, honorary fraternal organization for women educators, took flight. It has grown into more than 1400 chapters in every state in the U.S. and also around the world, and has more than 40,000 members. Since 1947, more than 125,000 women educators have been initiated into ADK. We too, have a special bond as women educators and like our Founders, provide Vision, Action and Innovation in our schools and community. We are the WINGS of Tomorrow: Women Educators Involved in Nurturing, Giving and Supporting as we grow personally and professionally in our Kappa Chapter in Owensboro, Ky.

This Founder’s Day program was developed from the History of our Founders on the Alpha Delta Kappa Website. Excerpts and quotes were taken from that context. This program was written by Peggy Stemle, Kappa Chapter, Owensboro, Kentucky.