Check out the winter 2025 edition of the Quarterly!
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1 Also Inside | Why Alpha Phi Is Always Home | Meet Our Volunteers | Chapter News
A Look Inside
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Snapshot Take a deep dive into one of the Fraternity’s latest alumnae community program offerings – Dinner with 10 Sisters. Limitless Meet some of Alpha Phi’s outstanding volunteers who are pursuing limitless excellence in their personal and professional lives. Alpha Phi Finds Stay cozy this winter season with these select products from Shop Alpha Phi. Guides Us Home The chapter house at Eta Alpha-New Hampshire recently underwent a total makeover. Get an inside look here! Being Well Learn from International Executive Board (IEB) Vice President Elizabeth MeLampy (Iota Tau-Harvard) how Alpha Phi has remained her home even after graduation.
Amongst the Ivy Read accomplishments and updates from our undergraduate members and chapters. Alpha Phi, Always Catch up on the latest news from our alumnae members and chapters.
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Silent Chapter Join us in honoring our sisters’ passings.
Ask Alpha Phi We asked, and you answered. Check out our members’ answers to the latest social media poll question. Iconic Look back at a moment in Alpha Phi’s history preserved forever through HistoryIT.
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1985 S. Josephine Street, Denver, Colorado 80210
Editorial Policy The purpose of the Alpha Phi Quarterly and its content is to provide information and services to the membership of the Alpha Phi Fraternity, in keeping with the Fraternity’s status as a 501 (c) (7) tax-exempt private membership organization. The magazine is devoted to highlighting its members and matters of fraternal and collegiate interest. The views expressed in the articles published in the Quarterly are those of the authors and their contributors, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Alpha Phi Fraternity, its officers or staff. Questions Please direct any submission questions or inquiries regarding advertising or reprint permissions to the editor at quarterly@alphaphi.org.
AlphaPhi.org
@alphaphiintl
@AlphaPhi
On the Cover In this issue's cover story, we explore how Alpha Phi supports its members throughout their lifetimes and through some of life's most difficult chapters, including a breast cancer diagnosis.
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Also Inside | Why Alpha Phi Is Always Home | Meet Our Volunteers | Chapter News
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Susan "Suze" Knobler (Eta Beta-CSU San Bernardino) has held many titles throughout her lifetime -- actress, reporter, daughter, friend, sister. She is also a triple negative breast cancer survivor. Learn about her journey through this devastating disease and how leaning on Alpha Phi helped her persevere through her treatment and recovery. Page 22 One Member’s Story of Survival and Perseverance Through Breast Cancer
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International President Kate Halfon (Eta Delta-CSU East Bay)
Sisterhood. We have all heard that word used to describe Alpha Phi. In fact, the word sisterhood is in our mission statement. When I joined Alpha Phi many years ago, I didn’t realize how valuable or important this sisterhood would be for me as I am sure it is for so many of you. As we dive into the theme of sisterhood, I’m excited to share stories that showcase the remarkable ways Alpha Phi supports our members through life’s most pivotal moments. Our cover story highlights the powerful role sisterhood plays in a member’s journey with breast cancer. Through an inspiring interview with Susan “Suze” Knobler (Eta Beta-CSU San Bernardino), along with insights from other sisters in the medical profession, we celebrate the strength and resilience that our sisterhood provides during even the most challenging times. This issue also features an article by Elizabeth MeLampy (Iota Tau-Harvard), reminding us of the enduring bond that defines Alpha Phi — "Alpha Phi is always home." As Elizabeth beautifully expresses, our sisterhood isn't bound by the four years spent on college campuses, but extends far beyond, offering support, connection and friendship at every stage of life.
We are also excited to share more information about our Alpha Phi Abroad trip to Portugal in May 2026. This is an opportunity for our sisters to create lifelong memories together while exploring new parts of the world. As you read this issue, I hope you reflect on the power of sisterhood that lasts a lifetime — through the ups and downs, the triumphs and challenges, and the many milestones we experience. Alpha Phi is more than just a college experience; it's a lifelong network of love, support and connection. Thank you for being a part of this incredible sisterhood. We are so glad you’re here with us.
Loyally,
Kate Halfon (Eta Delta-CSU East Bay) International President
Ex-officio: Rebecca Andrew Zanatta, Foundation Chair Foundation Directors Rebecca Andrew Zanatta, Chair Janelle Del Carlo, Vice Chair, Development Jackee Schools, Vice Chair, Funding Priorities Claire Costin, Treasurer Shana Goss Smith, Secretary Barbara Chappell Tingley, Assistant Treasurer Janis Coughlin-Piester, Assistant Secretary
Linda Schnetzer Executive Director Ex-officio: Kathleen (Kate) Boyle Halfon, International President Executive Office Executive Director: Renee Smith Zimmerman Zainer
International Executive Board Kate Boyle Halfon International President Billie Coskey Battiato Dawn Kreisel Bauer Karen Bloch Bavender Christen Bamford Shelton Flamm Jenny Concepción Hansen
Foundation Office Executive Director: Linda Schnetzer 1985 S. Josephine Street Denver, Colorado 80210 (847) 475-4532
info@alphaphifoundation.org www.alphaphifoundation.org National Panhellenic Conference
Elizabeth MeLampy Keri Miller Van Acker Ex-officio: Laura Malley-Schmitt, Council of Delegates Ex-officio: Renee Zimmerman Zainer, Executive Director
1985 S. Josephine Street Denver, Colorado 80210 (847) 475-0663 fraternity@alphaphi.org www.alphaphi.org
Council of Delegates: Laura Malley-Schmitt Chief Panhellenic Officer: Linda Long Boland Alternate Delegate: Laura Lynn Davidson Ellett
Susan McNeice Sheryl Barden Dara Goldsmith Jennifer Johnston
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Part of what makes Alpha Phi so special is [our] wide range of chapters. No two are the same, and each one adds its own light to the constellation of our sisterhood.”
– Elizabeth MeLampy (Iota Tau-Harvard), International Executive Board Vice President
Learn more about Elizabeth’s Alpha Phi experience both as a collegian and an alumna, her time volunteering with Alpha Phi and why she still considers Alpha Phi home on page 36.
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Sit at Our Table! Alpha Phi offers new sisterhood event, Dinner with 10 Sisters, to grow sisterhood across the country.
By Anna Claire Howard
Guests are not required to bring anything with them to the event after they have purchased their ticket. Our hosts will take care of everything! There is a fee associated with the event that covers the cost of your meal. Any purchase of alcohol for the event is excluded. The event fee of $45 per person covers the cost of your meal. Please note, there are only nine spots available per city; the host makes 10. If your event has sold out, you will automatically be added to the waitlist. Members are contacted in the order that their name appears on the waitlist. It is not required to pay your annual or lifetime dues to attend these events, although we encourage you to do so. There is an option to pay dues during registration. Most attendees and hosts would agree the event's dress is dinner casual. Most, if not all dinner locations, are casual dining. There is no formal dress code. Dinners hosted in a home may be catered by a restaurant or catering company. Hosts will ensure that there are options for individuals with food allergies or dietary restrictions, but we cannot guarantee that items will not come into contact with others while being prepared. Last year, dinners were hosted in Martinez, California; Boston, Massachusetts; San Luis Obispo, California; Columbus, Ohio; West Palm Beach, Florida; Austin, Texas; and Chicago, Illinois. We are proud to have grown our list of cities for 2025 to include: Atlanta, Georgia; Baltimore, Maryland; Boston, Massachusetts; Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; Charlottesville, Virginia; Chicago, Illinois; Dallas, Texas; Denver, Colorado; Los Angeles, California; Nashville, Tennessee; Portland, Oregon; Sacramento, California; San Antonio, Texas; San Jose, California; St. Helena, California; and St. Louis, Missouri.
Have you been searching for a way to connect with other Alpha Phis in your area? Looking to make new friends or fortify existing connections as an alumna? Interested in strengthening our sisterhood?
Then we have the perfect alumnae program for you!
Consider joining nine other sisters and one Alpha Phi host for an evening of sisterhood, networking and fun at our country-wide Dinner with 10 Sisters event. Ten women came together over 150 years ago to establish our beloved Fraternity, and we imagine they experienced many moments sitting together around a dinner table getting to know one another while sharing ideas, hopes and dreams for Alpha Phi’s future. In honor of those 10 extraordinary women, we are carrying on this tradition today by coming together over a meal to support, encourage and care for one another throughout our lifelong sisterhood. This unique experience is sure to ignite the flame of sisterhood in all who attend, reminding them of the bonds they made when they first joined the Fraternity and encouraging them to keep up these relationships with their sisters who live nearby.
Dinner with 10 Sisters is a one-night, low-pressure, sisterhood-bonding experience that will allow you to meet and connect with sisters in
your local community over a meal. Your only commitment is to arrive at dinner at the
specified time and have a great night with your sisters. That’s it!
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“I think anyone who comes to a Dinner with 10 Sisters will
leave feeling inspired and loved,” expressed Alpha Phi's Director of Alumnae Engagement, Carolyn Gregg (Eta Psi-Eastern Washington), who plans
and manages this sisterhood event. “They may meet new friends, reconnect with old friends, share stories or fond memories and discover the joy of getting together with fellow alumnae. We have all had different experiences, colleges, chapters and paths that have led us to where we are today, but the one constant is the love and admiration for Alpha Phi. Every alumna can create a connection that will resonate with another member." The dinner will be held across the country at all locations at 6 p.m. local time on Thursday, March 27, 2025. Registration is open, but spots are filling up quickly. If you are interested in hosting a dinner with nine of your sisters next year, log into alphaphi.org to submit an interest form.
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Samantha Bliss Mullin (Theta Tau-Rensselaer) Boston, Massachusetts
Did you know any of the other members who attended the dinner before that night? SM: I hadn't met anyone before, despite thinking there may be a chance I would see someone I knew since graduates of my alma mater Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute often move to Boston for jobs after graduating. What motivated you to be a host this year? SM: Boston has a lot of surrounding coastal towns that make up the greater Boston area, and often the 'North Shore' folks can be quite separate from the 'South Shore' because it can be a hassle to make it through the city, especially around dinner time and rush hour. Last year's event was downtown on the north side of the city, so I proposed that this year our event could be held on the south side of the city where I live to see a fresh set of faces.
Samantha attended one of Alpha Phi’s inaugural Dinner with 10 Sisters last year and enjoyed it so much that she decided to host a dinner this year! Get to know her below: What motivated you to attend last year’s Dinner with 10 Sisters? Samantha Bliss Mullin: I moved to Boston in January of 2022 and had been looking for ways to make new friends and stay connected with Alpha Phi. I had previously lived in Austin, Texas, before my move to Boston for a work opportunity, and I was involved in the Austin Alpha Phi Alumnae Community and served as its president for four years while I lived there. The Dinner with 10 Sisters seemed like a great way to connect
with other Alpha Phis in a city where the alumnae community wasn't as active at the time.
What do you have planned for that evening?
What was that event like? SM: We met at a restaurant downtown that had a table
SM: Well, the exact location is still a surprise! But we will be meeting at a restaurant with an intimate, private dining room that fits just 10 and we will have a prix fixe menu with selections to suit a range of preferences. I am looking forward to getting to know each of the women who participates, to hear where she lives in the city, what she spends her time doing and how Alpha Phi has impacted her life as a collegian and beyond. What would you say to other alumnae members who are considering attending this event? SM: If you are on the fence deciding whether to join us, just know that this is a no-pressure opportunity to connect with fellow sisters. We understand that life is busy, and while some may be actively looking for a way to get more involved or volunteer with Alpha Phi, others may only be looking for a night away from the regular rhythm of life to reminisce on past Alpha Phi experiences over a wonderful meal, and that's OK too!
prepared for us and a set menu with several
options to choose from. I remember that we had quite a few appetizers to share and a main course that we could select for ourselves. We were each given a branded cup and a few other gifts with the Dinner with 10 Sisters logo on them, which made the dinner seem even
more like an event. I got to meet several other alumnae who were from all over the Boston area and from many different collegiate chapters.
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What would you say to other alumnae members who are
looking to become more involved as volunteers or with their alumnae communities? SM: Getting involved as an alumnae
member can take many different forms — some choose to volunteer as a collegiate advisor while others join their local alumnae communities where they are general members or part of the leadership teams. I've even had the
opportunity to serve at the Fraternity level as a member of the Alumnae Strategy Team, helping to develop the next initiatives to support the Alpha Phi alumnae experience. The first step to becoming more involved is to fulfill your commitment to the Fraternity by becoming current on your annual or lifetime dues. How you choose to commit your time and talents after that is entirely up to you!
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In November, the Alpha Phi Foundation honored the 2024 Heart to Heart Grant recipients with two on-site celebrations attended by alumnae, collegians and community members. The $100,000 Heart to Heart Clinical Grant was awarded to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, to fund its research project “cFAS Blood Biomarker to Diagnose Peripheral Arterial Disease in Women.” This recognition event included an informative lab tour that took attendees behind the scenes of this groundbreaking research, as well as a dynamic presentation of the exploration and experiements given by lead researcher and vascular surgeon, Dr. Mohamed Zayed. The inaugural Heart to Heart Community Grant was awarded to the University of Missouri's “Missouri CARES Heart Squad” for its project to increase the rate of bystander CPR and AED usage across the state, focusing on the utilization of female training manikins. Emergency medical professionals Dr. Julie Stilley and Kayla Riel brought their engaging demonstration to the University of Missouri's campus to teach attendees — including alumnae, Omicron chapter members and other students — life-saving skills while using the female manikins. Read more about these events in celebration of Alpha Phi Foundation’s premiere funding priority by visiting: https://aphifdn.org/2024H2HCelebrations.
Make a gift to support women’s heart health
aphifdn.org/H2HGift
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Make a Gift, Make an Impact
Embrace the new year with a gift to the Alpha Phi Foundation! With each dollar you give, you are making a promise to ensure the future of Alpha Phi, our enduring sisterhood and the advancement of women’s lives through the power of philanthropy.
Fundraising Priorities:
Forget-Me-Not
Heritage
Leadership
Scholarship
Heart Heatlh
aphifdn.org/Gift25
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WHAT MAKES HER EXTRAORDINARY
VOLUNTEERS
Meet some of the women who are making an impact in our Fraternity and their communities through volunteering with Alpha Phi.
CALLI SIMONEAUX SIVILS (Delta Tau-LSU)
Current International Governor (Delta Tau- LSU, 2020-present) and Past Recruitment Advisor (Iota Mu-Georgia Tech, 2017-2018; Iota Omega-Ole Miss, 2017-2019; and Delta Tau-LSU, 2018-2020) While we’d argue there’s no singular perfect time to volunteer with Alpha Phi because any time is the perfect time, Calli Simoneaux Sivils (Delta Tau-LSU) certainly didn’t miss a beat between graduating from college, traveling as an Education Leadership Consultant (ELC) and Education Leadership Specialist (ELS) and volunteering with our Fraternity. She did so immediately after wrapping up her travels for Alpha Phi and has done so ever since. “After traveling as an ELC and then an ELS, I had visited many chapters — some multiple times — and created relationships with the members and volunteers,” Calli explained. “I knew after I ended my travels I would want to continue working with those chapters and help them continue their success. My first two volunteer positions were with Georgia Tech and Ole Miss, both of which I was very involved with during my time as an ELC. I still cherish those first few years of volunteering with those chapters! I also learned so much about volunteering and Alpha Phi during that time from Allie Winkleman (Gamma Epsilon- Lake Forest) and Linda Long Boland (Gamma Kappa-CSU Long Beach) and will be forever thankful for their mentorship and friendship.”
CALLI SIMONEAUX SIVILS
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Caption here.
Calli with her husband, Garrett, and their daughter, Mary Collins
"There is no right time, but I promise you can make an impact no matter what stage of life
Alpha Phi holds a special place in Calli’s heart since she was initiated at Delta Tau, like it does for so many of our members, but perhaps even more so for Calli since her new member class was the founding class of Alpha Phi at Delta Tau-LSU. “This brought so many exciting events and moments,” Calli shared. “We all created such a bond because we were building something new and working together to do so. I will never forget signing the charter, and being initiated by Linda [Long] Boland, who was the International President at the time. I created such strong friendships and learned invaluable lessons from the volunteers that helped in those first years at LSU.” Calli has a self-proclaimed “go, go, go” personality and loves staying busy in her professional and personal life, so volunteering with Alpha Phi has been a steadfast source of joy in her life, even after getting married, beginning a career in property development and becoming a mother. “Volunteering has brought so much joy to my life,” Calli expressed. “I am truly passionate about Alpha Phi and want the organization to continue to thrive, and I want to contribute in a small way to make that possible. Volunteers and Alpha Phi staff made a huge impact on both my Alpha Phi experience and personal life during my college and ELC years. If I can have even a fraction of the impact on current members as they did on me, my time over these years was well spent. I still use skills I learned as a collegian and ELC in my everyday life.” Calli admitted that the hardest aspect of volunteering is getting started, but said that any amount of time, no matter how small, can make an impact on a chapter, collegian or advisor.
you may be in.” – CALLI SIMONEAUX SIVILS
“Just think back to the advisors that you encountered during your time as a collegian and think about what they had going on in their life at the time,” Calli posed. “Odds are they were in the exact same situation as you are now and were able to make it work and give back to Alpha Phi. There is no right time, but I promise you can make an impact no matter what stage of life you may be in.” In addition to being a devoted volunteer with Alpha Phi, Calli also devotes time to her church, her daughter’s school and the local food bank in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Calli summed up what volunteering has given her with one word – gratitude. “Every time I volunteer, I am reminded just how thankful I am that volunteers invested their time into our chapters and me, and I enjoy serving collegians the same way,” Calli implored. “I am also reminded just how bright Alpha Phi’s future is, and I am thankful to play a [part] in that future.”
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ELIZABETH “LIZ” BILLIES (Iota-Wisconsin) Treasurer (Greater Philadelphia Ivy Connection, 2006-present), Recruitment Advisor (Eta Iota-Pennsylvania, 2007-present) and CCA (Collegiate Chapter Administrator) current (Iota Iota-George Washington, 2018-present; Iota Chi-Yale, 2022-present; and Gamma Rho-Penn State, 2016-present)
Elizabeth “Liz” Billies joined Alpha Phi as a freshman at Iota-Wisconsin because she was looking for a group of friends like she had in high school. After an unfortunate off-campus housing situation that resulted in her moving into the Iota house her second semester, it was clear that she found the sisterhood she was looking for. “I was so thankful that Alpha Phi helped me during a not-so-great time in life, and I have always felt very loyal to the Fraternity,” Liz shared. “After graduation, I went to law school, and I honestly didn’t really have time to volunteer during that period. However, after that graduation, I joined the Greater Philadelphia Ivy Connection once I started working. Again, I was looking
Liz implored the importance of volunteering at a time in your life that works best for you. “For me, law school would not have been the right time,” Liz shared. “I had to be selfish during that period, and I was learning time management skills that I use now to balance everything that I didn’t have then.” Liz also emphasized the variety of roles available to volunteers within Alpha Phi that best fit their skill sets and commitment levels. “Women need to support other women in this world, and you have no idea what kind of an impact you can have on these younger generations of Alpha Phis through advising,” Liz expressed. “If you can’t volunteer on a long-term basis, that’s okay, too. There is still a place for you! You could offer your
“Women need to support other women in this world, and you have no idea what kind of an impact you can have on these younger generations of Alpha Phis through advising.” – LIZ BILLIES
for connection with other women in a bigger city. I ended up being the treasurer and met some great alumnae. This eventually led to me serving as the Recruitment Advisor (RA) for Eta Iota- Pennsylvania.” Liz credits her Alpha Phi sisters with opening the door for her to volunteer with the Fraternity. “I always tell people [that] sometimes people don’t think to volunteer; they just need to be asked,” Liz explained. “Sometimes that is because they don’t understand what the commitment entails, or they don’t think they have the right skills to be useful. I was definitely one of those people. I didn’t ask to volunteer for Alpha Phi; rather, someone approached me, and the rest was history. I’m so glad they did!”
services for resume workshops, mentoring in certain professions, doing programming at chapter meetings and more. There are lots of ways to say ‘yes’ to our chapters.”
Volunteering with Alpha Phi has enabled Liz to sharpen
organizational skills that apply to virtually every facet of her life, both personally and professionally. “My favorite mantra is, ‘It will all get done,’” Liz shared. “I say this a lot during recruitment season. And [it’s true] if you plan ahead.” Liz has also met women of all ages from a wide range of chapters that she wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet without volunteering with Alpha Phi. In addition to the time she devotes to volunteering with Alpha Phi, Liz also volunteers as a child advocate for the Montgomery County Child
Liz admitted that she did not know her chapter's advisors very well during her collegiate years. She decided to volunteer because she wanted to show collegians that they can have older mentors who are more experienced in the organization and can help guide them toward success. “I’ve been references for apartments and jobs, written letters of recommendations, etc.,” Liz shared. “It shows our collegians that Alpha Phi really is a great network for life, not just college.”
Advocacy Project, where she serves as a volunteer attorney for children who are victims or witnesses to crimes or domestic violence. She was also named one of the 10 best “Family Law Attorneys for Client Satisfaction” in Pennsylvania by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys in 2019.
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LIZ BILLIES
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NICOLE TEMPELMEYER ATTEBERRY (Upsilon-Washburn)
HCB (Housing Corporation Board) Member (Upsilon-Washburn, 2017-present) and Chapter Advisor (Upsilon-Washburn, 2019-present) Nicole Tempelmeyer Atteberry likes to joke that she began volunteering with Alpha Phi because she couldn’t stay away after graduating from Washburn University where she was a member of the Fraternity’s Upsilon Chapter. Now, she’s motivated to volunteer because she wants to give back to the collegians out of her love for Alpha Phi and what our Fraternity stands for. “I want to be a positive adult in their lives and support them because I’ve been where they are, [and] I know how crazy life can seem at that age, Nicole shared. “I think about what Alpha Phi has done for me over the years, and I want to help others have that same experience.” Nicole admitted that volunteering wasn’t a priority when she was younger. However, that changed as she got older. “I didn’t realize what volunteering could look like outside of picking up litter or painting a fence,” Nicole explained. “Through Alpha Phi, I learned how much fun volunteering can be and the impact you can make with just a few hours of your time. I believe it’s important to spend some of your time volunteering in any way you can, learning from others, or about others, and appreciating their passion for their cause.” In her years volunteering for Alpha Phi, Nicole has learned just how fulfilling her roles as an advisor and HCB member are both to herself and the collegians she serves. “Now, I’ve learned to communicate my availability with the chapter. I respect their time and schedules, and I expect the same in return. My partner is a supportive Alpha Phi husband. He helps out whenever I ask and understands my time commitments.”
Nicole (left) and her sorority sister, Katie Woltje (Upsilon- Washburn), at Alpha Phi's 2024 Convention in Palm Springs, California.
NICOLE TEMPELMEYER ATTEBERRY
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Upsilon-Washburn alumnae from various member classes during the early 2010s. From left to right: Annie Christesen Bartee, Nicole Tempelmeyer Atteberry, Alyssa Hutto Humphrey, Morgan Hammes Geffre, Macie Tomson Knak and Kaitlyn Truesdell Sester.
“Through Alpha Phi, I learned how much fun
Nicole said that she credits volunteering for Alpha Phi with emboldening her with leadership skills that have translated successfully into her personal and professional life. “I understand what it takes to get a group of people to work together effectively and support each other to reach [common] goals,” Nicole explained. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet many different women over the years, learning from the wisdom and experiences of other alumnae to be an effective leader in the chapter. I enjoy working with collegians, especially the Executive Council officers as they learn how to collaborate and lead the chapter.” Nicole recommended that any member interested in volunteering with Alpha Phi should start by committing the amount of time they are comfortable with and then building from there. “Reach out to your alma mater or local chapter to see if there are any events to assist at or other ways to help.” Nicole implored. “Some Upsilon alumnae put together finals week care packages or set up a taco bar study night at the house. You could even take a couple hours to help with Bid Day preparations or during philanthropy events. Any help is appreciated!” Nicole also emphasized that it’s important to remember that any time throughout your life can be the right time to volunteer.
volunteering can be and the impact you can make with just a few hours of your time." – NICOLE TEMPELMEYER ATTEBERRY
“I am who I am today because of the women I’ve met over the years and the experiences I’ve shared with them,” Nicole said. “I know there is a vast network of sisters across the country and world to connect with and learn from. Because of Alpha Phi, I am comfortable leading a group and can be confident in taking on responsibility at work. The friendships I’ve made have had the greatest impact [on my life]. I have made lifelong friendships that no matter how long we’ve been apart, it feels as though we’re back in Upsilon’s dining room, laughing and chatting like we’ve always done.”
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Katie Bergin (bottom right) with sisters from Phi-Oklahoma at Alpha Phi's 2024 Convention in Palm Springs, California. Top, from left to right: Dana Ford Schmukal, Haley Mitchell Wallace, Sarah Jensen Schettler, Emily Dunford Barron, Morgan McCoy and Taryn Wilson (2024 Chapter President of Phi-Oklahoma). Bottom left: Billie Coskey Battiato.
KATIE BERGIN (Gamma Eta-North Texas) International Governor (Phi-Oklahoma; 2022-present), Team Arkansas (2024-present) and 1872 Properties Board Member (2024-present) Upon joining Alpha Phi’s Gamma Eta Chapter at the University of North Texas and taking on leadership roles with the Fraternity like chapter president and vice president of membership recruitment, Katie Bergin recognized that there were opportunities for improvement in many areas of the Gamma Eta Chapter, particularly membership experience and campus involvement. “With the support of local volunteers, ELCs, and a new group of eager members, we were able to begin a positive turnaround for the chapter in just a few years,” Katie shared. “Our hard work, dedication and genuine love for Alpha Phi positively impacted our ability to build a stronger organization. Upon graduating, I was given the opportunity to join the travelling consultant program, and there was no looking back.” Katie began volunteering with Alpha Phi as an alumnae member shortly after getting off the road as an Educational Leadership Specialist (ELS). (Katie was one of the first members to serve as an ELC and traveled for a total of three years.) In this new role, she had the privilege of supporting some of the chapters she worked with as an ELS, allowing her the opportunity to continue making a direct impact and witnessing the chapters’ successes firsthand.
KATIE BERGIN
“Through volunteering, I have expanded my professional and interpersonal skills, continued to grow as a leader and built a massive professional network from our Alpha Phi community,” Katie expressed. “I owe much of the success in my own career to the projects I’ve led and supported with Alpha Phi. The impact that volunteering
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"Some of my most cherished friendships have grown through volunteering with Alpha Phi, many of whom I probably would not have met otherwise." – KATIE BERGIN “While volunteering with Alpha Phi is fun and energizing, I feel a great sense of loyalty to our organization as well,” Katie said. “I enjoy the challenging projects that arise and the opportunity for continued learning. I would love to continue building on my volunteer experience with Alpha Phi, and while I don’t know what life has in store for me, I do hope to always be a part of Alpha Phi’s volunteer world in some capacity, big or small.”
has had on me personally is even greater. Some of my most cherished friendships have grown through volunteering with Alpha Phi, many of whom I probably would not have met otherwise. I feel a great sense of camaraderie with other volunteers and my teams, and I know these experiences and relationships will only continue to positively impact my life.” Katie implored that while balancing volunteering with other aspects of personal and professional life is not always easy or convenient, she tries to dedicate at least a few hours per week to the volunteer commitments she has made. And she finds this thoroughly rewarding. “Make time to pursue the things you enjoy,” Katie emphasized. “There will never be a perfect time to volunteer, but I do think there are seasons of life that allow you some extra flexibility if you’re willing to dedicate the time and put in the effort. It’s important to recognize the commitment needed to be a good volunteer in whatever capacity that looks like for you individually. From there, you can determine what type of volunteer opportunity might best align — there’s always an opportunity to give back in any capacity.”
Lastly, Katie shared that she plans to continue volunteering with our Fraternity for a long time.
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Since graduating in 2018 with a degree in inclusive early childhood education, Ashley has remained an active volunteer with the Fraternity. She has served the Fraternity as a volunteer in many roles including recruitment advisor for her alma mater, as well as the international governor for Iota Nu-Kentucky and the collegiate chapter advisor for Beta Alpha-Illinois. She also attends each annual Leadership Conference and Biennial Convention. Katherine is a junior majoring in advertising with a minor in marketing. She currently serves as the chapter president. Previously, she was the vice president of marketing, the director of sisterhood and the director of chapter housing. She aspires to travel for Alpha Phi as an Educational Leadership Consultant (ELC) after graduating in 2026. We asked both sisters the same questions to compare their collegiate and sorority experiences. Here’s what they had to say! What is your favorite place to hang out on campus? Ashley (A): The student union. It was the perfect place to hang out with friends, relax, work and grab a snack. Katherine (K): My favorite place to hang out on campus is either the Alpha Phi Chapter House or our campus Starbucks. I love how, in both places, you are bound to see a sister who you can share bits and pieces of your day with!
What was/is the preferred social media platforms used by students? A: Instagram was the most popular! K: TikTok and Instagram are the two most popular platforms at BGSU. What is your favorite chapter memory? A: My favorite chapter memory was serving as Vice President of Membership Recruitment during my senior year. It was such a special time when everyone worked together to show the PNMs what makes Alpha Phi so unique. That year, my little and I also recruited my grand-little, and both of them became bridesmaids in my wedding. They’re still my best friends today! K: My favorite chapter memories are endless! Some that stick out to me are the Leadership Conference in Denver, Bid Days and a car wash philanthropy event when we were paired with another Greek organization. Any advice for incoming members? A: Take your time getting to know your sisters and build real friendships. Be active and take advantage of opportunities to grow through leadership and involvement. And, most importantly, stay true to yourself. Sorority life is about sisterhood, but also about staying authentic and true to your values. K: Get involved. Whether that be raising your hand at chapter with an idea or applying for positions like chapter president. Getting involved in the chapter has grown my appreciation for the organization tremendously.
Ashley Murphy Mace and Katherine Miller are both members of Alpha Phi’s Beta Omicron Chapter at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio, but they were initiated seven years apart. Both joined the Fraternity as freshman – Ashley in 2015 and Katherine in 2022. Despite how much changed between those years, these two are more similar than you might think. Do you know two sisters who were initiated at the same chapter with some years between them? Email us at quarterly@alphaphi.org for a chance to see them featured on this page in the future!
CampusTrends
A: Alex and Ani bracelets, choker necklaces and dark wash skinny jeans. Popular fashion trends on campus/in your chapter?
What was/is an accessory you can’t live without?
K: Alpah Phi sweat sets, usually paired with Uggs, a big scarf and a long warm coat!
A: My wristlet!
K: Could not live without my gold hoop earrings! They complete any outfit and make me feel more confident and put together.
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“Cancer [...] takes a village. Even with an early diagnosis and good prognosis, there are many emotions and many appointments. Community support [...] not only helps someone diagnosed with cancer, but it also helps their caretakers.” — Dr. Anjali Malik, MD (Zeta Omicron-Johns Hopkins)
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women and the second leading cause of death related to cancer in the United States, accounting for
breast cancer themselves.
However, despite these odds, there are currently more than 4 million breast cancer survivors living in the U.S. This includes women still being treated and those who have completed treatment. Moreover, the 5-year relative survival rate in the U.S. for all types and stages of breast cancer combined is 91%, and the 5-year relative survival rate in the U.S. of localized (early stage) breast cancer is 99%. Breast cancer death rates have slowly decreased since 1989, for an overall decline of 43% through 2020. This is in part due to better screening and early detection efforts, increased awareness and continually improving treatment options. Women who receive regular screenings for breast cancer have a 26% lower breast cancer death rate than women who do not receive screenings. “[It’s critical that women] know their family history of all cancers, assess their lifetime risk for the development of breast cancer with their doctor — preferably before the age of 30 — know their breast density once they begin screening mammograms, assess if they need genetic testing and minimize their modifiable risk [which includes] diet, exercise, alcohol consumption and smoking,” implored Dr. Anjali Malik, MD (Zeta Omicron-Johns Hopkins) , a board-certified, fellowship-trained breast imaging radiologist located in Washington D.C. who focuses on patient education and empowerment. “And start early!” Most doctors like Anjali strive to detect breast cancer at the earliest stage when it’s at its smallest size, which is why they encourage women to receive annual mammograms starting at the age of 40 for those who are at average risk of developing breast cancer.
approximately 30% — or 1 in 3 – of all new cancers among women each year.
Overall, the average risk of a woman in the United States
developing breast cancer sometime in her life is about 13%. This means there is a one in eight chance she will develop breast cancer. On average, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 2 minutes in the United States.1 (The statistics are comparable for Canadian women.) It’s important to note that all humans are born with breast cells and tissue, including men. And although it’s rare, men get breast cancer too. In 2024, an estimated 2,800 men were diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the United States, and an estimated 530 American men will die from breast cancer in 2024. The lifetime risk of a U.S. man developing breast cancer is approximately one in 726.2 Additionally, roughly 15% of women diagnosed have a family history of breast cancer. Those with a first- degree relative (mother, sister or daughter) with breast cancer are nearly twice as likely to develop
In other words, early detection is key.
1 American Cancer Society (cancer.org)
2 American Cancer Society (cancer.org)
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In a recent article she wrote that was published on medcitynews.com, Anjali urged readers that it’s time for the medical community to “increase access to lifesaving screening, decrease anxiety surrounding screening and incorporate the principles of precision medicine into our mammography guidelines.” But how could this occur? Anjali suggested revolutionizing current breast imaging services with emerging AI technologies. “We should use AI [artificial intelligence] to develop recommendations for breast cancer screening protocols based on quantified risk, factoring in family history, ethnicity, genetics, and density, et al. and then support the use of powerful new imaging AI technologies for those cases that demand a deeper look,” Anjali wrote in the article. “For example, several companies […] have significantly improved AI-driven mark and score offerings that effectively serve as a second reader to identify suspicious areas in both screening and prior examinations. There are several software devices that use AI to generate density rankings for breast tissue. And others are working on linking the image data to multiple risk factors. These powerful AI technologies taken together are the solution. That’s targeted, precision medicine […] If we make this our approach, the age-old debate about one-size-fits-all screening age will one day be seen as the dark ages.”4
The term “triple-negative breast cancer” refers to the fact that the cancer cells don’t have estrogen or progesterone receptors (ER or PR) and don’t make any or too much of the protein called HER2. (The cells test "negative" on all three tests.) This aggressive form of breast cancer accounts for roughly 10-15% of all breast cancers and tends to be more common in women under the age of 40 or who have a BRCA1 mutation. “That’s what made my case unique,” Suze explained. “I was diagnosed at 49; clearly not within that typical age range.” While this came as a shock to Suze and her family, they were not unfamiliar with a breast cancer diagnosis. Her mother, Olga Morales, was diagnosed with breast cancer … twice. And she survived, twice. “We believed that my mom’s cancer was environmental because when she was a little girl, she and all of her siblings would run behind a DDT truck that regularly
drove down their street for fun,” Suze shared. “They were poor growing up in Taylor, Texas, and she was one of 14 kids. All of my aunts and uncles — every single one of her siblings — or their offspring ended up with some form of cancer.” Knowing this family history and watching their mother undergo breast cancer treatment prompted Suze and her sister, Meredith Knobler Kennedy, to take the BRCA gene test for breast cancer. This test looks for DNA changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that increase the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer using samples of blood or saliva. It identifies the mutations that increase the risk of these cancers and allows individuals to take the required steps to reduce their risk. Surprisingly (in hindsight), both sisters’ BRCA tests came back negative. Neither were carriers of the cancer gene, and neither was their mother. But they remained on high alert for any warning signs.
Susan “Suze” Knobler (Eta
Beta-CSU San Bernardino) agrees with Anjali that starting your preventative care for breast cancer detection early is key. And she would know. Suze is a triple negative breast cancer survivor.
According to the American Cancer Society, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive type of invasive breast cancer that differs from other types of invasive breast cancer as it tends to grow and spread faster, has fewer treatment options and tends to have a worse prognosis, meaning a lower survival rate.
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Top left: Suze enjoying views and relaxation after entering remission; top right: Suze, her mother (Olga Morales) and her sister (Meredith Knobler Kennedy); bottom left: Suze recovering after chemotherapy; and bottom right: Suze undergoing chemotherapy treatment for her triple negative breast cancer.
accompanies a breast cancer diagnosis. Unfortunately, Suze recalled a different experience. She remembered her medical team’s poor bedside manner when she was finally admitted for a scan. “The ultrasound technician asked if breast cancer ran in my family, and that sent me into a panic attack,” Suze explained. “She stepped out and brought the radiologist back in with her. This woman said they didn’t like what they saw and that it wasn’t shaped right. And then she apologized! As if I was already dead.” “I looked at her and said, ‘Oh, don’t you I’m-sorry me.’ I’m going to fight this. I’m going to beat it. And I’m going to be OK.” After these preliminary ultrasound results, Suze went to San Diego, California, for further testing. She, her sister and their mom were getting their nails done at a salon when the doctor called with her test results. “They said, ‘I’m sorry, but you have cancer,’ and I just started screaming and crying in that salon,” Suze said. “I gave the phone to my mom who quickly passed it to my sister. Once I calmed down, I was able to get back on the phone and ask questions.” From that point on, Suze began fighting her way through her breast cancer journey. “Once I was established with my medical team in San Diego, I learned that I didn’t have the ‘garden variety’ breast cancer my previous doctor said I did,” Suze said. “It was confirmed. I had triple negative breast cancer. It was new and more aggressive, and there aren’t a lot of treatments for it that result in long-term success or remission.” “My doctor told me it was treatable, but that I needed to get ready to run a marathon,” Suze continued. “I looked him right in the eyes and said, ‘I have my bossy gloves and my ass-kicking boots on. Let’s go.” She stayed in San Diego with her sister to undergo treatment, which in her case included chemotherapy, a lumpectomy
On average, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 2 minutes in the United States.
1 in 3 of all new cancers among women each year is breast cancer.
One night while lying in bed on her side and watching television, Suze felt a lump in her right breast.
Roughly 15% of women diagnosed have a family history of breast cancer.
She immediately called her doctor.
However, the next available appointment was over a month away. Suze did not accept this. “I was calling my doctors and nurses crying, saying that my mother had breast cancer and I needed to be seen sooner,” Suze recalled. “They finally got me in, but it wasn’t without a lot of work on my part. I always tell people you have to be your own medical advocate. Don’t be embarrassed! Feel your body and check for things like this. Do it in the shower, when you’re changing clothes, when you’re watching TV like I was. Don’t put it off or ignore it. Self- detection is key to detecting this early.” Many women have caring and supportive medical personnel ushering them through the concerning and complicated process that
There are currently more than 4 million breast cancer survivors living in the U.S.
4 https://medcitynews.com/2024/10/navigating-the-breast-cancer- screening-debate-the-role-of-ai-and-precision-medicine/
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“
I am living my life to the fullest. I choose joy every day, and I make the most of my time here on this earth. I love to travel, so I have seen a lot of the world in a relatively short period of time. I’m spending as much time with my family, friends and Alpha Phi sisters as I can. I am living. “ — Susan "Suze" Knobler (Eta Beta-CSU San Bernardino)
Anjali continued. “Instead make concrete offers — whether it's food, helping around the house, giving a ride to an appointment, etc.” These days, Suze is back living in Redlands, California. Sadly, her mom passed away suddenly, not from breast cancer, but she did get to help care for Suze and see her become cancer-free. While Suze is in remission, her fight is not over. She still goes in for scans and checkups every three to six months, and she understands that her triple negative breast cancer is likely to recur. “If it were to metastasize, or spread from my breast it originally occurred in, I would automatically be diagnosed with Stage 4 triple negative breast
and radiation. Unfortunately, immunotherapy was not an option for Suze because of her underlying condition of ulcerative colitis. Despite the odds being stacked against her, Suze beat it. The chemotherapy successfully shrunk her cancer, and the lumpectomy left her breast tissue with positive margins. Suze has been in remission and cancer- free for over a year and a half. “This entire experience really put my entire existence into perspective,” Suze shared. “I realized I’m not going to live forever. Once I was deemed cancer- free, I started looking at the world with rose-colored glasses on, like I was seeing everything for the first time. I decided to be a bright light and pay everything forward. Everything just changed.” Suze admitted she wasn’t always the best at asking for or receiving help from others throughout her cancer journey. “I recovered at my sister’s house in San Diego, and I just didn’t want to be a burden on people,” Suze explained. However, it’s important for cancer patients to feel enveloped by their community in love and support. “Don’t ask me what I need; just do it,” Suze shared. “Most cancer patients would agree that we’re not going to reach out and ask people to do things for us. Not only are humans just wired against that kind of thing, but we truly do not have the energy to ask. And most of the time we wouldn’t even think of doing those things to take care of ourselves, let alone ask someone else to do them for us.” “And never say that you’re sorry,” Suze continued.” Don’t treat us like we’re
already dead or our fate is sealed. Tell me we’re in this together, that we’ve got this. Tell me you’re going to fight cancer with me. Just please, please, please don’t say that you’re sorry.” Suze chronicled her fight against breast cancer on her Facebook page, resulting in an even larger community of people both local to her and beyond rallying behind her and encouraging her to keep fighting. But even more importantly, her friends, family and Alpha Phi sisters were there fighting alongside her. “My two best friends are Alpha Phis, and they really stepped in to ride that cancer roller coaster with me,” Suze said. “When people love you, they want to be a part of this, and they won’t hesitate to show up for you when you need them. My Alpha Phi family did that for me. They moved mountains to see me and to show me that they were in this fight with me.”
cancer,” Suze explained. “And the survival rate of that is not promising. But since going into remission, I am living
my life to the fullest. I choose joy every day, and I make the most of my time here on this earth. I love to travel, so I have seen a lot of the world in a relatively short period of time. I’m spending as much time with my family, friends and Alpha Phi sisters as I can. I am living.”
It seems to be a natural human response for some to distance
yourself from someone going through something like breast cancer treatment, especially if the prognosis is not good. It’s too close to death, and it makes us uncomfortable. Or we worry that we’re more of a burden by coming around.
Suze implored that she wanted the main take away from this discussion to be that people understand that just because they receive a cancer diagnosis, even one as devastating as triple negative breast cancer, it does not necessarily mean they’re going to die.
Anjali implored that could not be further from the truth.
“Cancer, like parenting, takes a village,” Anjali expressed. “Even with an early diagnosis and good prognosis, there are many emotions and many appointments. Community support — both emotional and tangible — not only helps someone diagnosed with cancer, but it also helps their caretakers" “Don't ask ‘what can I do,’ and don't assume to know their experience,”
“A good friend of mine bought me a pair of pink boxing gloves because my saying throughout treatment and all of my social media was that I was wearing my boxing gloves and ass- kicking boots to beat this thing,” Suze shared.
“And you know what? I did.”
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