AOII Boston Alumnae Chapter

Founders' Day is right around the corner!

2012-02-22T20:21:00.004-05:00

Don't forget, our Founders' Day brunch is coming up on March 3rd. You can register/pay via PayPal at:

AOII Is Coming to Bryant University!

2012-02-13T14:42:00.002-05:00

It's almost here! Public relations efforts are underway at Bryant University for the upcoming colonization of the university's newest sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi!

With colonization parties taking place February 24-26th, we want to keep you informed of our progress.

After the NPC groups on campus hold their formal recruitment, AOII will begin grassroots public relations through a student-led group, TEAM AOII. Led by AOII's colonization team, these students of TEAM AOII will disseminate promotional material and serve as AOII ambassadors during the colonization period. With flyers, signs, buttons, newspaper advertisements, campus calendar submissions, and other handouts, the university will soon be painted red with AOII.

As alumnae in the area, your support is vital! Whether through on-site colonization participation or your assistance spreading our message to friends, we hope that you'll be excited to share our message. Sponsors are needed for asssitance within the Colonization Ceremony. If you're interested in assisting or attending the Colonization Ceremony, please contact aoiibryant@alphaomicronpi.org.

Bryant Colonization Party dates and locations:

February 24th
"Picture Yourself in AOII" at 6pm

February 25th
"A Black Tie Affair" at 6pm

February 26th
"It's Sweet to be an AOII" Bid Day at 1pm

Colonization Ceremony at 6pm in Bello

Open to family, friends, and university personnel

Please RSVP to aoiibryant@alphaomicronpi.org.

We appreciate your thoughts and support to this budding colony at Bryant University!

With updates coming daily, we encourage you to track AOII's progress at Bryant through our social media outlets and websites. Click on any of the images below!

Visit Facebook to Find "AOII at Bryant University, Visit Twitter to Find @AOIIatBryantU, Visit the Colony's Website, Visit the AOII International Website!

It's Not Too Late- JOIN US!

2012-01-28T19:14:00.003-05:00

Boston AOII Alums, it's not too late to join the alumnae chapter. You can use the link below to send in dues via PayPal (note: there's a small fee for using PayPal) or come to Founder's Day and join in person.

It's a great way to stay involved and connect with women in Boston. We have a FABULOUS time and would love for you to join us!

Founders' Day

2012-01-24T20:24:00.002-05:00

Ladies, it's that time of year! Please join us for Founders' Day on Saturday, March 3, at 11am. We'll be having brunch and celebrating sisterhood at Maggiano's (4 Columbus Ave, Boston 02116) and would love to see everyone there!

For dues-paying alumnae, the event is $30 and for general alumnae it's $35. If you'd prefer to pay via paypal, the link is below (please note that paypal charges an additional fee). See you in March!

Happy 2012 and Meet the Board!

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Happy New Year From the Boston Alumnae Chapter!

We wish you all the best in this upcoming year and hope to see you at some of our upcoming events!

Click here to get your own copy of our Spring 2012 Calendar of Events!

Get To Know Your

Boston Alumnae Chapter Board Below!

Name: Laurel Zeidman

Board Position: President

Chapter and Initiation Year: Delta, Tufts University, 2000

Current Occupation: eCommerce Marketing Manager

New Years Resolution or Fun Fact: "My new year's resolution is to eat 5 servings of vegetables a day (public school cafeteria pizza doesn't count)...I would not say I am reaching my goal every day, but I am definitely eating more and more variety, than I was before. I just signed up for a CSA for next summer so I am really looking forward to that!"

Name: Christina Pastorello

Board Position: Programming Chair

Chapter and Initiation Year: Delta, Tufts University, 2005

Current Occupation: Graduate Student

New Years Resolution or Fun Fact: "I just ran the Disney Marathon and a Half Challenge in Florida, and I'm excited to be running the Boston Marathon this April!"

Name: Lauren Simpson

Board Position: Treasurer

Chapter and Initiation Year: Iota, University of Illinois, 2005

Current Occupation: Healthcare Consultant

New Years Resolution or Fun Fact: "My new year's resolution is to save more money. So far, I've talked myself out of 3 impulse shoe buys, so I'm on the right track!"

Name: Kathleen Donohue

Board Position: VP Membership/Membership Education

Chapter and Initiation Year: Epsilon Chi, Elon University, 2002

Current Occupation: Data Analyst for a Structured Finance Software Company

New Years Resolution or Fun Fact: "I guess my fun fact is I was a state champion in filed hockey in high school!"

Name: Sarah Gaither

Board Position: Secretary/Communications

Chapter and Initiation Year: Sigma, UC Berkeley, 2003

Current Occupation: PhD Social Psychology Student, Tufts University

New Years Resolution or Fun Fact: "My new years resolution is to try as many new foods and new recipes as possible! (While still trying to motivate myself to go to the gym of course!)"

Name: Sabrina Sgroi

Board Position: Alumnae Panhellenic Delegate

Chapter and Initiation Year: Lambda Epsilon, University of Waterloo, 2008

Current Occupation: Student at New England School of Optometry

New Years Resolution or Fun Fact: "Proud to be a Canadian!"

Happy Holidays!

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The Boston Alumnae Chapter wishes you all a fun and happy holiday season!

Giving Back to AOII

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This holiday season you may be thinking of ways to be charitable and give back. Alpha Omicron Pi has given many of us so much: Great memories, a strong support system full of sisterhood, wonderful experiences, leadership development, and so much more. For many of us, AOII has helped shape who we are. This holiday season, please consider giving back to AOII. There are lots of ways you can support the mission of AOII, "Women Enriched Through Lifelong Friendship".

Make a Donation to the AOII Foundation to support our Foundation programs (Scholarships, Endowment, Arthritis Grants, Ruby Fund, or Education and Training Grants)

You can give online by visiting www.aoiifoundation.org

Volunteer to serve as an adviser for a collegiate chapter
The following opportunities are available for Boston Alumnae Chapter members

Delta Chapter at Tufts University in Medford, MA. Contact Amber Countis at amberaoii@gmail.com for more information.
One of our newest colonies at Bryant University in Smithfield, RI. Fill out the Alumnae Interest form here or contact Kathleen Donohue at kathleen_niple@yahoo.com.

Get involved in the Boston Alumnae Chapter

Become a dues-paying member
Volunteer to serve on a committee to plan or assist with an event or support member outreach initiatives

Happy Holidays to All!

-The Boston Alumnae Chapter Exec Board

New Volunteer Programming Chair Positions!

2011-12-05T21:24:00.006-05:00

As our Founders imparted, “the greatest honor that Alpha Omicron Pi can bestow upon us is the opportunity for larger service to our Fraternity and the ideals for which it stands.” With the spirit of service in mind, you are encouraged to share your specialized gifts and talents in support of AOII’s membership and chapters by applying for the newly created Programming Chair positions.

The Programming Chair positions - Alumnae Advisory Committee, Finance, Membership, and Alumnae - have been created by the Executive Board. These volunteer positions are key in our overall structure because they will provide the lateral coordination and leadership needed for the specialized areas of our Fraternity. They will provide support, direction, and strategies for Network Specialists of Leadership, Finance, Recruitment, and Alumnae in their specific area of programming and achieve the strategic initiatives set forth by the network and the Fraternity.

Please click on the links below for the Position Description for each role:
Programming Chair – Alumnae Advisory Committee
Programming Chair – Finance
Programming Chair – Membership
Programming Chair – Alumnae

Click here for the Volunteer Application.

The Programming Chairs will attend Leadership Institute and Convention with expenses for room and board and travel allowance covered by the Fraternity. The Programming Chairs will also collaborate with the Education Committee to identify gaps and share training and education ideas that are needed in our collegiate and alumnae chapters. The term for these positions is 2 years, beginning January 1, 2012 and expiring December 31, 2013.

Please email applications to the Human Resources Committee at hrc@alphaomicronpi.org by December 16, 2011. Add your name (Last Name, First Name) to the document name prior to saving it and emailing it for submission. (This application also includes the opportunity to express other areas of service interest in addition to this role.) The selection of candidates will occur during the month of January.

We are also seeking applications from volunteers who may have not previously served in a Network role, but have the desired skill set. This is an open application process so all are invited to participate. This is an exciting time to be involved in AOII as a Programming Chair and share your skills with members of the Network Specialist teams.

Please feel free to contact HRC with any questions!

Founders' Day and Ruby Fund Message!

2011-11-30T22:35:00.008-05:00

Read This Courtesy of the AOII Foundation!

Alpha Omicron Pi was founded on January 2, 1897. Because that date presented difficulties in gathering members for celebrations due to the holiday season, Founders' Day was officially changed to December 8, at the 1921 convention. That date coincides with the birthday of Founder Stella George Stern Perry. Early on, the AOII founders cautioned that Founders' Day was not intended to honor them, but to be a time to stop and measure how closely the fraternity had come in actively performing the tasks each member had accepted when she was initiated into Alpha Omicron Pi.

Nearby alumnae and collegiate chapters often join together in these celebrations. At the close of each Founders' Day celebration, sisters traditionally join hands around the room and sing the "Epsilon Chapter Song." The lyrics are, "Alpha Omicron Pi, Friends as the years go by, Loving sisters are we, Loyal forever, Alpha to thee."

Link to Official Founders' Day Message

Link to Official Ruby Fund Message

Want to Advise?

2011-11-21T11:03:00.002-05:00

Do you LOVE AOII?
Do you LOVE volunteering?
Do you want to help out a local AOII chapter?

If so, you might be a great adviser! The Delta Chapter (Tufts) is looking for new advisers in the Boston area. Please contact L.Simpson714@gmail.com if you're interested.

I look forward to hearing from you!

AOII to Colonize at Bryant University!

2011-11-02T11:21:00.004-04:00

Please read the following message from Carrie Youell, Director of Extension, about one of the newest additions to our AOII family! If anyone is interested in getting involved with the chapter they can contact Carrie Youell at cyouell@alphaomicronpi.org.

Hello everyone,

It is with great excitement that we share AOII is continuing to grow!! We will be colonizing at Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island in February 2012. AOII will join a growing community of Delta Zeta and Sigma Sigma Sigma. Please help me thank the presentation team of Kaya Miller, Julie Anne Hughey, Nicole Claudon and Carrie Youell as well as the many staff members who work tirelessly behind the scenes for Extension.

Please look forward to receiving more information in the near future.

Best,
Carrie

Support the AOII Delta Chapter In Their Strike Out Arthritis Poker Event!

2011-10-25T10:41:00.013-04:00

Please read the message below from Delta's Alumni Relations Chair Celina Garza about their upcoming Strike Out Arthritis Event to see how you can help out!

Hello,

My name is Celina Garza and I am the Alumnae Relations Chair for the Delta Chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi at Tufts University. The entire chapter is currently in the midst of planning our fall philanthropy event of the semester. We will be hosting our very own Poker Night on December 1^st which will be full of games such as Blackjack, Texas Hold’em and other fun Casino games. All proceeds will be donated to AOII’s national foundation -the Arthritis Foundation.

Our first Poker Night was held last year and it turned out to be a great success but we are looking to have an even more successful event this year, and we can only do that with the help of the community! This is where we’d like to personally reach out to anyone that would like to participate and help us fundraise for the Arthritis Foundation! Last year our grand prize was a Nintendo Wii and we are looking to have more grand prizes that will get the campus and community excited for Poker Night.

We would like to be able to offer prizes for the tournament such as gift cards to popular local establishments, concert tickets or sports tickets for local teams such as the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, or Bruins, or any other kind donation. We would also like to reach out to the greater Boston area through corporate sponsors that would be willing to fundraise for this great cause. Because the Arthritis Foundation is a 501(c)(3 ) organization, all donations are tax-deductible and many businesses will match donations through their HR departments, sometimes even 2 to 1, so that is also an option! We welcome any and all donations, and credit will be given to donating establishments in all of the advertisements for the events. Please note that all donations are tax deductible.

If you would be interested in contributing to this event or would like some more information, please con

tact me (Celina.Garza@tufts.edu) or our Philanthropy Chair, Amy Calfas (Amy.Calfas@gmail.com) by November 11^th. Thank you for your time!

Sincerely,

Celina Garza

AOII Delta Chapter

Alumnae Relations, VPE

Tufts 2013

2011-10-20T21:49:00.003-04:00

Thanks to everyone who came to our Ring Out Arthritis Event! We had a lot of fun and will be able to make a great contribution to the Arthritis Foundation because of you.

I want to also thank our generous donors:
Petit Robert Bistro
Berryline
JP Licks
Taza Chocolate Factory
Museum of Science
F1 Boston
Koren Phillips (donated Marc Jacobs Bag)
Lauren Simpson (donated Boston Bruins tickets)
Lacey Bowman (donated two gift certificates)
Bell in Hand Tavern

Ring Out Arthritis Happy Hour on October 20

2011-10-15T15:03:00.002-04:00

We're looking forward to seeing you all at the happy hour at Bell in Hand on October 20th. Bring all of your coworkers friends! The event is not exclusive to AOIIs, but remember, if your an alumnae chapter member you AND a friend will get in for the price of one.

With your $10 cover charge you'll also get a raffle ticket to win great prizes like Boston Bruins tickets, a Marc Jacobs handbag, gift certificates for some great restaurants around Boston, an F1 Racing experience, etc. If this isn't enough to entice you, there will be great food and drinks and lots of awesome people to help you celebrate the end of a Thursday workday!

World Arthritis Day and an AOII Foundation Updates!

2011-10-12T10:15:00.009-04:00

CELEBRATE WORLD ARTHRITIS DAY, OCTOBER 12th AND MAKE A HEATING PAD TO HELP THOSE JOINTS!

Follow these easy steps to create your homemade heating pad:

One pair of cotton tube socks (we used AOII socks, tie-dyed socks are also cute!)
Put two pounds of rice (do not use instant rice) in each sock
Cut two 12-inch pieces of ribbon
Take the ribbon and tie a double knot around the top of each sock
Make sure the knot is tight to avoid any rice from coming out of the sock
Tie a bow with the ribbon
Donate to your local Arthritis Foundation chapter, or heat for 2 minutes and apply!

Barbie Chadwick is named Foundation Executive Director!

With over 25 years of experience in the marketing and development field, Barbie formally served the AOII Foundation as the Operations and Technology Manager since 2009. Prior to the AOII Foundation, Barbie owned a professional non-profit consulting company where she advised non-profit organizations on development of capital campaigns, annual giving programs, and other stewardship activities and programs, and other stewardship activities and programs. Additionally, Barbie served three years on the Gamma Phi Beta International Council.

Barbie welcomes you to contact her at the AOII Foundation office at 615-695-2626 or via email at bchadwick@alphaomicronipi.org.

Jana West is the new Director of Development!

With over nine years of experience in fundraising at the United Way, Jana West, Rho Omicron '91, specializes in both training a

nd development. Jana also brings seven years of management experience, as the prior owner of a bridal and formal wear shop in her hometown of Dickson, TN. During her collegiate years at Middle Tennessee State University, Jana served as the Panhellenic President where she received a bachelor's degree in advertising and marketing.

Jana may be contacted at the AOII Foundation office at 615-695-2626 or via email at jwest@alphaomicronpi.org.

Do you have Google Calendar? Boston AOII Does!

2011-10-02T22:04:00.006-04:00

Never miss an event again! You can add our calendar to your google calendar -- it automatically updates with our events. Just click the "+ Goggle Calendar" button in the bottom right hand corner of the calendar below. You will be redirected to your calendar where you can add the AOII calendar to yours.

We're always looking for new ways to keep our members informed about what's up and coming! Please send any feedback about the calendar or any ideas you may have to bostonaoii@gmail.com

Read The Piper Online To Learn About Everything New in the World of AOII!!

2011-09-30T12:20:00.004-04:00

There's so much going on in the world of AOII--make sure you see the latest news by reading The Piper! To access the document, you can log-in to the My AOII side of the website, click on AOII Today, and The Piper.

For your convenience the link is below:

www.alphaomicronpi.org/AM/TemplateRedirect.cfm?Template=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=13065

Link to Our New Chapter Newsletter!

2011-09-29T23:53:00.005-04:00

Here is a link to our newest chapter newsletter with information about all of our upcoming events including our "Ring Out Arthritis" fundraiser at Bell in Hand on October 20th! For dues paying members this event is buy one get one free admission 2 free raffle tickets!

Read about this event and all of the other upcoming events here:

http://secure.campaigner.com/Campaigner/Public/t.show?NjOo--A1Ye-dK70s8

Sisters Don't Forget To Sign Up for the 3rd Annual AOII Northeast Weekend!

2011-09-23T16:09:00.002-04:00

The weekend will take place in King of Prussia, PA on October 22nd and 23rd. Join AOII collegians and alumnae from the northeast and beyond as we gather for a weekend full of sisterhood and education. For more information please visit the event's Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/northeastaoiiweekend.

The regular registration deadline is October 1st and the late registration deadline is October 15th. Register early to take advantage of a registration discount!

Thanks For Supporting Arthritis Research! And You Can Still Support it More!

2011-09-23T15:46:00.006-04:00

We wanted to thank everyone who came out and walked or donated or even just thought about Arthritis during our recent Boston Arthritis Walk to Strike Out Arthritis. The sunshine came out and it was great to be active with some of our alums and current Delta Chapter members too!

In case you are in need of a massage as the summer season changes to fall, you can still help out our philanthropy by booking a massage or facial through Massage Envy on October 12th! They have agreed to donate $10 from every massage or facial to The Arthritis Foundation, so what could be a better deal than that? Click here for more information!

And don't forget about Book Club this upcoming weekend and our Apple and Pumpkin Picking Trip on October 1st!

Here are links to both events on facebook, or always feel free to email us too!

Book Club

Apple and Pumpkin Picking

September Book Club

2011-09-17T23:22:00.004-04:00

Join us for brunch and discussion of One Day by David Nicholls on Sunday, September 25th at 10:30am at Papa Razzi. Even if you haven't been able to finish the book, we'd love to see you! If you have any questions or if you would like to be added to the book club elist, please email me at Christina.Pastorello@gmail.com

Help the Delta Chapter with Recruitment!

2011-09-02T11:13:00.002-04:00

Here is a message from from the Recruitment Adviser for the Delta Chapter at Tufts:

Hey Boston AOIIs!

I am the new recruitment adviser for the Delta chapter. We are already starting to prepare for recruitment. On Sunday, September 11th the sisters of the Delta Chapter at Tufts University will be preparing for recruitment and need the help of local alum rom 5:30-6:00pm at the AOII house at Tufts (25 Whitfield Rd., Somerville, MA )2144). It 's very short but it will definitely help them a ton to have us there. This chapter is already working hard and now they need help from the alum!

Please come if you are free!

Roses,
Susanna
susanna.j.crowell@gmail.com

If that date doesn't work, recruitment will be September 19th-21st at their chapter house and there will be other opportunities then, so feel free to email Susanna for more info there too!

Memebership Form For Your Dues!

2011-08-28T16:38:00.006-04:00

Thanks to Lauren, we now have a paypal link set up through our blog for you all to pay for your membership dues for the year! (scroll down to her post with the link!) It can't get much easier than that! And remember you are supporting this alum chapter and foundation all at the same time!

$50 General Membership

$34 Life Loyal Members

$15 First Year's On Us!

If you would prefer to pay by check, click here for our new membership form you can all download, fill out, and mail in for dues too! We will be sure to copies of this form at our Kickoff Event at the Asgard this week too!!

Just a reminder that anyone who pays their dues by the day of our Kickoff Event will be entered for a raffle for 4 free movie passes!

Please let us know if you have any questions at all! bostonaoii@gmail.com

Pay Dues Online

2011-08-26T10:40:00.005-04:00

We're excited for a great upcoming year of Alumnae events. If you'd like to join the Boston AOII Alumnae Chapter, you can pay dues online using our secure PayPal account (please note there is a $2 fee for paying online):

Where are my dues going?

2011-08-21T15:55:00.002-04:00

Although joining the Boston AOII Alumnae Chapter is lots of fun, you may be wondering what your $50 ($34 for Life Loyal and $15 for First Year's on Us). Here's a quick run-down:

Operating Fees- This part of your dues helps keep IHQ running and providing great resources for all members.
Education and Training Fees- Wondering how AOII is able to put on awesome events like Convention and Leadership Institute? You're making it possible!
Technology Fee- As we become less paper-centric, chapters (collegiate and alumnae) have increased technology needs.
Local Dues- This part of your dues allows us to plan awesome events, give alumnae members discounted prices for things like Founder's Day, etc.

In addition to dues, we supplement the money coming into the alumnae chapter with good, old-fashioned fundraising. You can help by supporting our gift card program: Purchase gift cards for places that you frequent every day (Whole Foods, Target, Starbucks), and the Alumnae Chapter receives a percentage of your purchase. Visit Shop With Scrip to see all the companies that are offered. For more information, email bostonaoii@gmail.com OR talk to someone at one of our next events!

Keeping in Touch with AOII!!

2011-08-20T08:32:00.009-04:00

We are planning our 2011-2012 calendar right now and we want to hear from you!!

What events interest you? Do you have any suggestions for things you would like to do with your fellow sisters?

We are working hard to try and create a new and improved calendar of activities, but we would love your input to make this year as amazing as possible! Email us at bostonaoii@gmail.com or reply to this post on the Blog or message us on facebook to let us know! Or bring suggestions to the Kickoff event at the Asgard on August 31st!

Want to make sure you are getting all of the AOII news you can?

There are tons of ways to stay in contact with your sisters besides just coming to our awesome events! Here are just a few ways to stay in touch with AOII:

1) Become a dues paying member of this chapter and you will be added to our email list for all of our upcoming events! Email bostonaoii@gmail.com for a membership form! Pay by our Kickoff Event on August 31st and be entered in a raffle for 4 free movie passes!

2) Join the Boston AOII Alumnae Chapter Facebook group! Who doesn't want new facebook friends? And we post events and message threads there too!

3) Like the Alpha Omicron Pi official Facebook Page! All of the most up-to-date AOII info from chapter accomplishments and member spotlights are there!

4) For you Twitter fans out there, you can tweet along with AOII too!

5) And you can always read along at the official AOII Blog online! It features all of the stories from our traveling Educational Leadership Consultants and has tons of really fun experiences to read about!

6) For those of you who like the full media experience that AOII has to offer, be sure to check out AOII on You Tube too! There are tons of cool videos from your fellow sisters talking about all kinds of things, so check it out!

Get Ready For a New Year of AOII!

2011-08-13T09:14:00.010-04:00

The new year is starting and we have a ton of really fun events planned, so read below for a mini sneak peak of some events we have soon!

Dues for 2011-2012

Be sure to pay your membership dues by our first kick off event on August 31st to be entered in a raffle for 4 FREE movie passes!! As a paying dues members you will have access to discounted events this year, plus you support our alum chapter as well as headquarters, so why not sign up today! Email bostonaoii@gmail.com for more information!

$50 General Membership

$34 Life Loyal Members

$15 First Year's on Us!!

Asgard Kick Off Event!! August 31st!!

Come to the Asgard in Central Square to kick off the year and to meet all of your Boston area sisters with some dinner and drinks! Plus the raffle for those 4 free movie passes will take place here too, but you don't have to present to win :-) RSVP by August 23rd by emailing Laurel Zeidman at bostonaoii@gmail.com so we can add you to the evite, or you can rsvp on facebook too at: Asgard Event on Facebook

Northeast AOII Weekend in King of Prussia, PA October 22-23d!

Join all of your AOII sisters from around the area at this two-day event! More details in the Northeast Facebook Group!

More events in September and October will be announced soon! Hope to see you on the 31st!

Officers for 2011-2012

2011-08-02T21:50:00.002-04:00

Welcome to our new officers! Thank you everyone for voting in this year's election.

President:
Laurel Zeidman, Delta - Tufts
Membership & Membership Education:
Kathleen Niple, Epsilon Chi - Elon
Treasurer & Fundraising Chair:
Lauren Simpson, Iota - Illinois
Communications Chair and Secretary:
Sarah Gaither, Sigma - California, Berkeley
Programming Chair:
Christina Pastorello, Delta - Tufts
Alumnae Panhellenic Delegate:
Sabrina Sgroi, Lambda Epsilon - Waterloo

May Book Club, Saturday May 21st at 11am

2011-05-09T23:09:00.000-04:00

We will be discussing Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen at 11am on May 21st. The evite for the event has just gone out; if you would like to join us (and wish to learn more details) please let me know at christina.pastorello@gmail.com.

Next Book Club: April 3rd

2011-03-07T20:16:00.002-05:00

Hello all! Join us as we discuss David Mitchell's Cloud Atlas on April 3rd during AOII Book Club. We are always looking for new members to join us. If you are interested, shoot me an email at Christina.Pastorello@gmail.com and I will add you to the monthly elist.

Northeast AOII Weekend

2011-01-04T13:10:00.000-05:00

Reminder: The early registration deadline is coming up on Saturday January 15th for the Northeast AOII Weekend in Boston on March 5-6! Price is $35 per person, and will increase after this date.

Weekend Agenda:

Registration Form:

Please email Melissa (meliss923@gmail.com) or Kathleen (kathleen.niple@gmail.com) with questions!

Founders Day -- February 12th

2010-12-10T06:13:00.002-05:00

Our Founders Day plans have been finalized! We'll be celebrating at Maggianos at the Park Plaza on Saturday, February 12th. The cost will be $30 ($25 for dues paying members). Hope to see you all there!

Let's Get Crafty! Sunday, Nov 14th from 12p-1:30p

2010-10-30T09:45:00.000-04:00

We will be making holiday gift tags at Paper Source in Brookline. The cost is $30 per person and includes all supplies and instructions. You may pay by cash or check at the event.

Paper Source
1361 Beacon St
Brookline, MA 02446

Pleases RSVP by noon this upcoming Thursday, November 4th so that the appropriate amount of supplies will be reserved for us. Didn't receive the evite but want to attend? Contact Christina at Christina.Pastorello@gmail.com to be added to the evite or if you have any questions/concerns.

Hope to see you there!

November Book Club

2010-10-18T00:00:00.000-04:00

The first novel of this year's book club is Up from the Blue by Susan Henderson. We will be meeting on Sunday, Nov 7th to discuss the book and enjoy tasty treats. An evite will be sent to those on the book club elist closer to the date with details about time and location

We usually aim to read about a book a month, so please me email me at Christina.Pastorello@gmail.com if you would be interested in joining the book club elist and if you have any ideas for future books. Happy Reading!

Movie Club - Sunday, 10/17

2010-10-14T06:19:00.000-04:00

Let's plan to see Waiting for "Superman" at 4:25 pm at the AMC Boston Common. Let's meet in the lobby around 4:10. If you think you'll be able to make it, please let Koren know at kaphillips@gmail.com.

Looking forward to seeing you all this weekend!

Dinner Club - 9/28

2010-09-18T18:45:00.000-04:00

The Boston AOII Dinner Club will be meeting at Vapiano (191 Stuart Street, Back Bay) on Tuesday, September 28th at 7pm. The restaurant is cafeteria style, so we'll just find a table to catch up with each other. No need to RSVP or confirm, just come out and join us if you'd like!

Vapiano

If you'd like to receive emails about future Dinner Club events, please email us at bostonaoii@gmail.com.

Not from Boston? Not alone!

2010-09-10T19:48:00.000-04:00

Have you been in town a while, but think that the Boston Alumnae Chapter is just comprised of women who went to school here? Are you new to the area, but are unsure of joining us for an event?

As of September, we are a group of women who represent 12 different collegiate chapters spread across the states and provinces of New York, Colorado, Illinois, Ohio, California, North Carolina, Massachusetts, Nebraska, and Ontario. And we know that we have additional representation out there!

Please come join us for an event! We also could also meet up one on one for coffee or drinks before an event, so there is a friendly face when you come meet the group.

bostonaoii@gmail.com

Did you know???

2010-08-26T22:15:00.000-04:00

AOII has been invited to make a formal presentation for extension consideration to Worcester Polytech on September 15, 2010. Colonization is targeted for January 2011. Information about the community may be found at www.wpi.edu. If you are interested in helping with this opportunity, contact AOII Headquarters at 615-370-0920.

Local collegiate chapter looking for advisers!

2010-08-18T18:52:00.000-04:00

Our local collegiate chapter at Tufts University is looking for advisers. Some adviser roles can be done from long-distance, via email or phone, and don't require a significant time commitment. There is something for everyone! Additionally, many of the international volunteers that work with this chapter are local, so there will be support for any questions you encounter along the way.

If you are interested in learning more about the opportunities available, please contact Delta's Chapter Adviser, Lauren Simpson, at l.simpson714@gmail.com or via phone at 630-730-5628.

2010 - 2011 Event Schedule

2010-08-11T06:15:00.000-04:00

Next year's calendar has been announced! If you did not receive the email with the calendar and membership information, please email us at bostonaoii@gmail.com to be added to our list.

Wednesday, September 1st

7pm – Hosted by Lacey Bowman

Business Meeting and Education Session (accompanied by Make Your Own Sundaes and Pizza!)

Come join us to hear about our introduction of affinity groups to our calendar of events, hear details about Leadership Institute this past summer, and learn about our fundraising and philanthropic programs. We will also hear an insider’s view about the International Executive Board nominating process and how all members can be involved!

Sunday, September 19th

10am – Artisani Park, 1234 Soldier’s Field Road, Brighton (Note location change from prior years)

Arthritis Walk

Join other area AOIIs as we support our international philanthropy partner, the Arthritis Foundation, with their annual Arthritis Walk. Sign up for our team here! There are also great incentives, specific for AOIIs, when you reach certain fundraising levels.

Saturday, September 25th

9am – Depart Boston for Mohegan Sun – we’ll organize carpools from the city

Mohegan Sun Fun with fellow Northeast AOIIs

Choose your own adventure as we journey to Mohegan Sun and join our sisters from Connecticut and New York for activities at the casino. We’ll have time for spa, shopping, gaming, and (my favorite) people-watching! We’ll join up for a group lunch at one of the casino’s renowned restaurants and return to Boston late afternoon.

Monday, October 18th

6:30 – 8pm – Cass Flowers, 531 Mt Auburn Street, Watertown

Floral Design Workshop

We’ll learn how to arrange roses in an Asian Contemporary method, and take home our arrangements at the end of the workshop! The cost for this workshop is $35 and you must sign up online at http://www.cassflowers.com/wedafwor.html. Sign up early before the event sells out!

Sunday, November 14th

Paper Source, 1361 Beacon Street, Brookline

Let’s Get Crafty!

We will be making holiday gift tags at Paper Source in Brookline. Cost for this event will be between $20-30, includes all supplies and instructions, and can be paid at the event.

Sunday, December 5th

Holiday Open House

2pm – 5pm – Hosted by Koren Phillips

Participate in our annual cookie swap as we enjoy each other’s company and take a breather from our hectic holiday schedules! We will also be assembling exam bags for Delta Chapter at Tufts.

Saturday, February 12th

Founder’s Day

Please join us for our annual Founder’s Day ceremony and brunch. Location has not been finalized as of yet.

Saturday and Sunday, March 5th and 6th

AOII Northeast Weekend

Our sisters from across the Northeast and Eastern Canada will be traveling to Boston for this weekend filled with education and friendship.

Saturday, April 9th

9:30am – Noon – Greater Boston Food Bank, 70 South Bay Avenue, Boston

Volunteer Event

Looking to volunteer in the community? Ever wonder what it looks like inside the Greater Boston Food Bank’s new building? Come join us as we sort and pack food, which is then distributed to local shelters and pantries.

Saturday, April 30th

Delta Chapter Alumnae Transition

We will welcome the graduating seniors from Delta Chapter at Tufts to alumnae status.

2010-2011 Membership and Event Information...and Red Sox tickets!

2010-07-27T07:26:00.001-04:00

For those who are excited about next year's Membership Information and Event Calendar, I'll be sending it out in a few weeks. I have some super-fun (at least I think so!) new events planned, and some oldies-but-goodies. We'll be volunteering and crafting and celebrating, oh my! We also have a couple of new initiatives to announce.

Additionally, we're down to our last handful of Red Sox tickets for the 8/23 game. If you are interested in joining us, email bostonaoii@gmail.com!

Lacey

Recruitment Recommendations!

2010-06-28T19:37:00.000-04:00

Summer is here, which means that fall sorority recruitment is right around the corner. For many colleges, sorority recommendations serve as an introduction for incoming freshman to the sorority chapters on their campus.

If you are an incoming college freshman from New England and are attending a school where sororities suggest an alumna recommendation for recruitment, please email us at bostonaoii@gmail.com. We ask that you contact us well in advance of the collegiate chapter/university deadlines so that we have adequate time in preparing the recommendation.

While it is not the norm for Northeast schools to require recommendations, we recognize the importance of these recommendations in other regions of the country. We are happy to help out and hope that everyone has a positive recruitment experience.

Lacey -- Boston Alumnae Chapter President

Get ready for the Boston Arthritis Walk!

2010-05-15T14:32:00.000-04:00

Our team has been formed for the Boston Arthritis Walk on September 19th. I encourage you all to join our team and start fundraising this summer for our international philanthropy, Arthritis Research. Our team can be found here: Boston AOII. Family and friends are welcome, so encourage them to join you. There are numerous incentives to raise money for this cause, including special AOII prizes for giving levels of $250 or greater.

Congratulations, 2010-2011 Officers!

2010-04-25T11:38:00.000-04:00

The following slate was approved by the membership at last night's meeting:

President: Lacey Bowman (Chi Delta, University of Colorado)
Vice President: Christina Pastorello (Delta, Tufts University)
Treasurer: Melissa Faubert (Delta, Tufts University)
Secretary: Laurel Zeidman (Delta, Tufts University)
Collegiate Liaison: Margi Scholtes (Delta, Tufts University)

We look forward to bringing future success to the chapter.

Summer Fun!

2010-04-16T09:14:00.000-04:00

Laurel and I are scheming up some summer fun as our last hurrah as this year's Programming Co-Chairs! So far we've planned an evening of delicious ice cream at the Jimmy Fund's annual Scooper Bowl at City Hall Plaza (Tuesday, 6/8 from 6-8 pm). What else would you like to see us do this summer?

- Koren, Programming Co-Chair

Announcing the 2010-2011 Boston AOII Slate!

2010-04-11T22:28:00.000-04:00

We are pleased to announce the 2010-2011 Boston AOII Alumnae Chapter Officers! Please join us in congratulating the following sisters:

President: Lacey Bowman (Chi Delta, University of Colorado)
Vice President: Christina Pastorello (Delta, Tufts University)
Treasurer: Melissa Faubert (Delta, Tufts University)
Secretary: Laurel Zeidman (Delta, Tufts University)

You might note that we have not slated a Programming Chair. Worry not, the new executive board will be formulating a great strategy to make programming a collaborative effort across the board. We are exited for another wonderful year! Roses to all.

- Koren, Programming Co-Chair

Exam Bag Ideas?

2010-04-11T21:45:00.001-04:00

As we prep for Exam Bag stuffing at our next event, the question poses itself: what would you have loved to receive as a pre-exam treat? Recent bags have included Easy Mac, goldfish, Nutri Grain bars, jelly beans...

Let us know in the comments!

Our New Network Volunteers!

2010-04-11T15:23:00.000-04:00

Below are our 2010-2012 Network Volunteers for the Northeast!

Amber Countis - Network Director
Melissa Faubert and Kathleen Niple in the area of Recruitment
Kelly Manuel and Jen Thompson in the area of Leadership
Nicole D'Amato in the area of Finance
Kay Welsh and Koren Phillips in the area of Alumnae

Fraternally, Lacey

Elections Time!

2010-03-27T19:28:00.000-04:00

Hello Ladies,

It's elections time again! All 2009-2010 dues-paying members should have received information about the election process this past week. As a reminder, if you'd like to be considered for an officer role, please email us (bostonaoii@gmail.com) by April 9th. The offices available are President, Vice President, Treasurer, Programming, and Secretary/Historian/ MIF Chair.

Additionally, we decided at our last officer meeting to create a new officer role for the 2010-2011 year. To further enhance our relations with our local collegiate chapter, we have created a Collegiate Liaison. This office is open to a 2010 graduate of Delta Chapter at Tufts University, who is interested in joining the Alumnae Chapter executive board while maintaining relations with their collegiate chapter. They will help plan joint events and keep communication lines open between the two chapters. We are very excited about this new office!

Fraternally,

Lacey Bowman, Alumnae Chapter President

Join the AOII Foundation Garden Party!

2010-03-16T11:27:00.000-04:00

Sisters, we encourage you to make your $48 gift to the AOII Foundation to join the AOII Garden Party! Your gift with this donation is a charming little AOII umbrella - which would have certainly been useful this weekend!

Roses,

Koren
Programming Co-Chair & AOII Foundation Marketing Committee Member

April Book Club

2010-03-15T14:14:00.001-04:00

The alumnae chapter book club is always looking for new members! We are a small, informal group which meets on Sundays once a month in a sister's home or at a local restaurant.

Our April meeting will be Sunday, April 25 and we'll be discussing The Help by Katheryn Stockett. If you are interested in participating, and please do so, let us know!

-Laurel, Programming Co-Chair

Spring Arthritis Foundation Events in Greater Boston

2010-03-15T14:00:00.000-04:00

Each fall, members of the Boston AOII alumnae chapter participate in the Boston Arthritis Walk downtown, alongside members of Delta chapter at Tufts University.

But there are also some great Arthritis Foundation events in the greater Boston area which happen in the spring, namely the MetroWest Arthritis Walk on Sunday, May 16, and a Wiffle Ball Tournament on Saturday, June 26.

If you are interested in participating in either of these events, please email us and let us know.

-Laurel, Programming Co-Chair

Less Than 10 Tickets Left for April Red Sox Game!

2010-03-05T12:54:00.000-05:00

That's right! Anyone who has been holding out, contact Lacey at bostonaoii@gmail.com to place your order before it's too late. Remember, dues-paying members receive $5 off per ticket ($30 vs. $35 for non-paying members).

Plenty of tickets are still available for the August game, but we anticipate they will sell out quickly as we get closer to the date so I encourage you to plan ahead and reserve your tickets now!

-Laurel, Programming Co-Chair

Reminder: Alumnae Event Tomorrow 3/4/10

2010-03-03T09:58:00.001-05:00

We'll be meeting at the Charlesmark lounge at 7pm.

Contact info can be found in the Evite sent to the Boston AOII Alumnae mailing list. If you did not receive the Evite or would like to be added to the mailing list, please let us know!
-Laurel, Programming Co-Chair

Farewell, AOII InCircle!

2010-03-02T19:14:00.000-05:00

As you may have heard, AOII InCircle will cease operations on March 15th. For many of us, InCircle has been a unique and interesting way to connect with sisters across the country. I know that I am personally very sad to see it go!

According to the email announcement from HQ, in the fall, new AOII technology initiatives will offer an additional tool for social networking with our sisters! It will offer the following features:

Custom Profiles – All members or associated members have their own profile complete with pictures, biographies, and other items you wish to display.

Message Boards – Threaded discussions allow your members to be better informed about topics and tracking messages.

Groups, Committees and Boards – With just a few clicks, you can organize and create unlimited groups from your list of members. Allow your members to communicate freely using the networked calendar, group forums, and email tools.

In the mean time, be sure that you are connected to Boston AOII's Facebook Page and stay tuned for even more news on our blog.

Roses,

Koren

- Programming Co-Chair

AOIIs at Cuchi Cuchi Happy Hour!

2010-02-20T19:59:00.000-05:00

Pics from our happy hour at Cuchi Cuchi in Cambridge!

Network Job Descriptions & Apps Now Available!

2010-02-16T00:13:00.000-05:00

In a previous post, we talked about some of the revamping of the AOII Network Structure. We are moving to a geographic structure where each region will have 6-8 assigned specialists. The terms will begin in June 2010 and run through June 2012. Each specialist will have a specific area of expertise, including:

Leadership
Recruitment
Alumnae
Finance

To see the formal announcement with the description of each role and the application, please contact us at bostonaoii@gmail.com!

- Koren, Programming Co-Chair

Behind the Scenes of the Boston AOII Alumnae Chapter!

2010-02-14T16:32:00.000-05:00

It's been a busy year for the Boston Alumnae Chapter! In addition to the many social events we've held, there are many things that you may not have heard about.

In December, our Alumnae Chapter adopted a family through Reach Beyond Domestic Violence and provided gifts for a boy and his mother to brighten their holiday season.
Each semester, we provide the opportunity for parents of Delta (Tufts U.) collegiate members to purchase Exam Bags full of snacks and treats to get them through their finals. The proceeds from these bags are then donated to the AOII Foundation. Come to our International Potluck on April 24th and help prepare the bags for the Spring semester!
We are teaming up again with the other Boston Alumnae Panhellenic member chapters to present a dues scholarship to a NPC collegiate member in the Boston area. Our own Jessica Snow (Tufts U.) received this scholarship in Spring 2009!

What can you do to help?

Become a dues paying member of the alumnae chapter! Gone are the collegiate days of dues that are several hundred dollars a semester! Our dues are only $40/year ($24 if Life Loyal), and they entitle you to many benefits, including discounted pricing to Founder's Day and exclusive access to tickets for our 2 Red Sox games. Member dues go towards such things as supporting the local collegiate dues scholarship and local philanthropies.
Support our gift card program! Purchase gift cards for places that you frequent every day, and the Alumnae Chapter receives a percentage of your purchase. Visit Shop With Scrip to see all the companies that are offered. Place your order by February 25th, and they will be delivered to you at our next chapter event on March 4th.
Come and cheer on the Red Sox with us! We've secured group tickets to games on April 21st and August 23rd. Dues paying members have access to an unlimited number of tickets at $30 each. Best of all, $2 of each ticket will support our international philanthropy, Arthritis Research. Not a dues paying member? You can purchase up to 4 tickets for each game at $35 each, with the additional $5 being a contribution to the AOII Foundation.

If you have any questions, or would like to participate in any of the opportunities mentioned above, please contact us at bostonaoii@gmail.com.

~ Lacey (Chi Delta - University of Colorado), Boston Alumnae Chapter President

International Badge Day is coming up!

2010-02-13T11:33:00.000-05:00

"Fellowship, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to community service are the daily themes in the lives of sorority women—from our college members to alumnae.

On Monday, March 1, these women who number in the millions will celebrate International Badge Day during National Women’s History Month. On that day, all of us will honor our separate and distinct Greek affiliations by wearing our badges or letters."

I'll be honest, when among non-AOIIs, I am often guilty of trying to downplay my sorority membership and alum involvement. But on Badge Day, I wear my AOII pin with pride. I start off the day expecting strange looks from coworkers, and yes that has happened, but every year I usually find at least one coworker or acquaintance with a "hidden" sorority affiliation - and am always surprised by the great conversations that get started (and compliments) by wearing my badge.

I encourage all Boston AOIIs to wear their badges on March 1, feel free to come back and post a Badge Day story!
-Laurel, Programming Co-Chair

AOII Structure Overview

2010-02-09T17:45:00.000-05:00

Some of you may be aware that AOII has been undergoing some major changes in its organizational structure over the past few years. New regional structure has been piloted in two Beta districts. According to a recent email from AOII Headquarters, "Our goal is to provide our membership with enhanced stability, while empowering our collegiate chapters to increase growth through fully-supported Alumnae Advisory Committees and strong alumnae chapters working in collaboration within their network to maintain lifelong bonds of friendship."

As a quick overview, the following structure is being proposed:

Today we have 54 Network Specialists (NSs) who work directly with our collegiate and alumnae chapters. We currently utilize 32 Collegiate NSs, 13 Alumnae NSs, and 9 Beta Pilot NSs in addition to our 8 Colony Development NSs. Today’s NSs work with specifically assigned chapters in a generalist role. Our future state will continue to have a Colony Development NS working one-on-one with an assigned chapter; however, we will have 6-8 NSs assigned to each network. These NSs will have specific area of expertise (Recruitment, Leadership, Finance, and Alumnae) and will be deployed as needs and wants are identified. As subject matter experts in their network, they will also be proactive for their area of expertise and collaborate with similar NSs in other networks. We anticipate maintaining the same approximate number of NSs (54).

We will continue to keep you apprised of any further structural developments. Please let any of the Alumnae Executive Board members know if you have any questions or concerns, or if you'd like to receive the full text of the email message from HQ.

- Koren, Programming Co-Chair

Founders' Day

2010-02-07T22:58:00.000-05:00

Hi ladies! Thank you all very much for a successful Founders' Day yesterday at Skipjack's Restaurant! It was a wonderful opportunity to get together with our fellow alumnae and collegiate members. The alumnae chapter recognized Saquora Lowe-McLaurin with our Founders' Day Rose Award, which includes a rose recognition pin and a special crown pearl honor badge. Saquora was recognized for her outstanding dedication to the Boston Alumnae Chapter and the community.

We'll be posting lots of useful information this site, we hope it's more useful than our last web home.

Looking forward to seeing you all at an upcoming event.

- Koren, Programming Co-Chair