Search

When you create an endowment of $25,000 or more, your gift is invested through the Foundation, and the annual returns are used to fund the programs or initiatives important to you. Endowments An endowment is a permanent fund established to provide ongoing financial support for a Tri Sigma cause you care about. When you create a minimum endowment of $25,000-$50,000, your gift is invested through the Foundation, and the annual returns are used to fund the programs or initiatives important to you. Your endowment will ensure these important causes are funded year after year. Start an Endowment to Support Leadership & Education Dream big! Endowments can fund a variety of leadership and education needs such as: The Fowler Family Scholarship established last year by Jennifer Fowler to honor her mother and support women pursuing a degree in fine arts or museum studies. The Destination Sigma Fund established by an anonymous donor to provide scholarships for collegiate delegates attending Convention. The Elizabeth and Fred Hoffert Endowment Fund for Leadership established by Liz Hoffert to ensure annual support for leadership programs and initiatives. Contact Summer Sage at ssage@trisigma.org to discuss starting an endowment. Leadership Endowments Destination Sigma Fund Established in 2004 by an anonymous member in memory of her parents, the Destination Sigma fund supports collegiate delegates to attend Tri Sigma's National Convention. Elizabeth and Fred Hoffert Endowment Fund for Leadership Elizabeth Wakeman Hoffert, Beta Xi—Southwest Missouri State University and Phoenix Alumnae Chapter, established this fund with her husband to support Tri Sigma's national leadership and educational programs. Julie Lammel Leadership Endowment The Julie Lammel Leadership Endowment Fund will provide grants to under-resourced chapters to support educational opportunities and leadership training, and development. Julie Lammel, Alpha Sigma, endowed this fund to help chapters succeed. She was inspired by her own experience as an Alpha Sigma chapter member, and the heartbreak she felt when the chapter was closed. Alpha Mu Scholarship Alpha Mu—University of Louisiana at Lafayette endowed this fund in 2018 to empower its members to strengthen their commitment to education. With this scholarship, the chapter alleviates the financial burden on one member each year and reminds them that belonging to this ever-expanding network of sisters provides opportunities not offered anywhere else. Mary Crumpton Brown Scholarships Mary Crumpton Brown, Rho—Florida State University, endowed a scholarship fund in 2014. She endowed two more scholarships in 2015. Mary has been devoted to Tri Sigma since her collegiate days, has been active in alumnae chapters throughout the United States, and is now part of Tallahassee Alumnae Chapter. She lives in Tallahassee and is a widow with two grown children. Mary was a teacher for many years, and she still volunteers with the local Head Start program on Tallahassee. Chi Chapter Scholarship Chi—Pittsburg State University began a campaign to endow a scholarship fund in April 2012 at the chapter’s 90th anniversary. With support from alumnae and collegiate members, the scholarship was endowed in 2022 to celebrate the chapter’s 100th anniversary. The scholarship is awarded annually to a member of Chi chapter who demonstrates outstanding leadership and genuine sisterhood, the trademarks of Chi Chapter women. Catherine Panarese Combs Graduate Scholarship Catherine Panarese Combs, Gamma Xi—Barton College, endowed this fund to support Tri Sigma members pursuing a graduate degree in secondary education. The Combs Scholarship is one of the earlier endowments of the Tri Sigma Foundation. It is part of the Violet Scholarships with one scholarship awarded annually and named in rotating order between Devor, Metherd and Combs. Lori and Sheryl Dahm Memorial Scholarship Lori E. Dahm was the daughter of Sheryl White Dahm, Iota—University of Northern Colorado and Denver Area Alumnae Chapter. Sheryl and her sister Carolyn White Wallisch, also of Iota—University of Northern Colorado and Denver Area Alumnae Chapter, endowed this fund in memory of Lori after her sudden death in 2007. The scholarship pays tributes to the support Tri Sigma provided Sheryl and her family at the time of Lori’s death. They hope the women receiving this scholarship find the same joy and fulfillment they experienced in Tri Sigma. After Sheryl passed away, the fund was renamed to honor the entire Dahm Family. Preference for this scholarship is given to an undergraduate student enrolled at Wingate University, where Lori’s brother, Dr. Chris Dahm, is a professor. Kim Kokko Davids Scholarship Kim Kokko Davids, Omicron—Eastern Michigan University, considered Omicron chapter and Tri Sigma as her extended family. Throughout her life, she repaid their kindness whenever she could. Kim was an Omicron chapter adviser, long-standing National Officer, and representative of the Detroit Area Alumnae Panhellenic. At the 2013 National Convention, Kim received the Woman of Distinction Award. This fund was endowed by Kim’s husband, Mark Davids, and Omicron chapter in memory of Kim after her death in December 2018. Kim’s professional life was dedicated to helping abused, neglected, and abandoned children. She worked for several social service agencies and volunteered for numerous nonprofits. Preference for this scholarship is given to a member of Omicron chapter pursuing a career in social work. Helen Cookston Devor Scholarship Helen Cookston Devor was a charter member of Kappa—Miami University and served Tri Sigma as a long-time volunteer. Kappa chapter alumnae endowed this fund when Helen served on the chapter advisory board. The Devor Scholarship is one of the earlier endowments of the Tri Sigma Foundation. It is part of the Violet Scholarships with one scholarship awarded annually and named in rotating order between Devor, Metherd and Combs. Marie Santee Dunham Scholarship Marie Santee Dunham, Alpha Iota—Northeastern State University, was an outstanding member and volunteer. She served as Tri Sigma's Regional Deputy, Examinations and Pledge Manual Chair, and a member of the first Board of Directors of the Educational Foundation. Marie was awarded the Golden Violet and the sorority’s Founders Award. Tulsa Alumnae Chapter endowed this fund to honor Marie’s 80th birthday and her 53 years of national service (1935-1988). Epsilon Xi Scholarship The women of Epsilon Xi—Indiana University endowed this fund when the chapter became inactive in 1994. Margaret Freeman Everett Scholarship Margaret Freeman Dixon Everett, Sigma—Western Colorado University, was Tri Sigma’s 5th National President. Denver Area Alumnae Chapter endowed this fund to honor Margaret's lifelong commitment and enthusiastic support of Tri Sigma. Fowler Family Scholarship Jennifer Rae Fowler, Sigma—Western Colorado University, endowed this fund to honor her mother, Genevieve June Christoff Fowler, also of Sigma—Western Colorado University. Genevieve received her degree in education in the 1940s and taught elementary school for 35 years. Following her lifelong interest in art, Genevieve taught herself to use a potter's wheel and enjoyed embroidery and painting in watercolor and in oils. Jennifer considers herself fortunate to have been able to follow her heart and major in English and art with no pressure to take a more commercial degree. She spent her career as a supply chain manager and in retirement became a docent at the Denver Art Museum. She is sorry that her mother Genevieve did not live to see her become a docent as her mom would have been thrilled. Paula M. Gillis Memorial Scholarship Paula Marie Gillis, Beta Tau—University of Detroit Mercy, earned her Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and graduated with honors in 2003. She was an exceptional student who excelled in a challenging discipline rarely comprised of women. Through her collegiate years, she held numerous chapter offices and chair positions, including chapter president. She was instrumental in revitalizing the chapter, personally recruiting many members, and creating tremendous personal bonds with a generation of women. During her short life, Paula touched so many hearts and she truly is the embodiment of what all Tri Sigma members should strive to be. Lucile Mertz Hendrick Scholarship Lucile Mertz Hendrick, Alpha Zeta—Northwestern State University, was a revered volunteer. In 2003, Louisiana alumnae and collegians endowed this fund to honor "Miss Lucile." Preference for this scholarship is given to a member of Alpha Zeta chapter. Mimi Brandt Hiner Scholarship Mimi Brandt Hiner, Beta Xi—Southwest Missouri State University, was Tri Sigma’s 8th National President. She served Tri Sigma in many different roles over the years, including collegiate chapter officer, National President, chair of the Tri Sigma Foundation, and member of Greater St. Louis Area Alumnae Chapter. After becoming seriously ill, Mimi remained dedicated to Tri Sigma even in her darkest days. A few months before her death in May 2012, Mimi traveled to the Beta Xi chapter in Cape Girardeau to help with recruitment, wrote a grant for the child life program at Cardinal Glennon Hospital, and attended the chapter installation of Theta Delta—Lindenwood University. The Hiner family endowed this fund with the help of Mimi’s many friends and sisters to honor Mimi’s dedication to Tri Sigma and education. Stephani Hoch Scholarship Stephani Hirsch Hoch, Bet Chi—Queens College and Denver Area Alumnae Chapter, was an educator for many years, and her sister was a nurse. Stephani had strong convictions for both fields and endowed this fund in 2021 to support Tri Sigma members pursuing these noble professions and ensure they have the same opportunities she had. This scholarship is awarded annually to a member in her final year of study pursuing a degree in either nursing or education. Gertrude Lawrence Ledford Scholarship Gertrude Lawrence Ledford, Pi—Emporia State University and charter member of Topeka Alumnae Chapter, was a beloved member whose loyalty and devotion inspired many. Phoenix Alumnae Chapter endowed this fund to honor Gertrude, who was a devoted member of Phoenix Alumnae Chapter for over 40 years. Emily Lewis Lee Scholarship Emily Lewis Lee, Alpha Upsilon—James Madison University, was a longtime volunteer who passed away in 2014. Upstate South Carolina Alumnae Chapter endowed this fund in her memory. Jennifer Metherd Scholarship Jennifer Metherd, Beta Beta—Missouri State University, was a much loved and talented sister. Jenny was a victim of the 1993 floods in St. Louis. She died trying to save the life of child in a flash flood in a cave. Beta Beta chapter endowed this fund in memory of Jenny. The Metherd Scholarship is one of the earlier endowments of the Tri Sigma Foundation. It is part of the Violet Scholarships with one scholarship awarded annually and named in rotating order between Devor, Metherd and Combs. Minoski-Runac Family Scholarship Pam Runac established this scholarship fund in honor of Jamie and Bradley Minoski, beloved family members of Pam Runac, whose personal journeys with learning challenges inspired a deep commitment to supporting students with diverse academic needs. Pam witnessed firsthand the academic struggles her brother Jamie faced during a time when special education interventions were not readily available. Despite the obstacles, Jamie persevered, working tirelessly to learn new skills, driving, and even playing football. His determination was a testament to his strength. However, it also revealed the toll that limited educational resources could take on students and their families. Years later, when her nephew Bradley began encountering similar challenges, the family was able to explore advances in educational supports that had since become available. These interventions equipped Bradley with the tools he needed to succeed in college and beyond. His achievements highlighted the transformative impact of tailored academic support and the importance of continued progress in this field. Pam established this scholarship out of a desire to honor both Jamie’s resilience and Bradley’s success, while also ensuring that other students have access to the guidance, resources, and encouragement they need to thrive. It reflects the Runac and Minoski families’ belief in the value of training and equipping educators and future leaders to bridge learning gaps, foster inclusion, and create pathways for all students to succeed. Lucille Morrison Scholarship Lucille Morrison was a charter member of Omicron—Eastern Michigan University. Omicron chapter endowed the fund during the chapter’s 100th anniversary to honor Lucille. The scholarship is awarded annually to an undergraduate or graduate member, with preference to a qualified member of Omicron chapter. Margaret Parker Munger Graduate Scholarship Margaret Parker Munger, Alpha Tau—University of the District of Columbia, endowed through a bequest. Margaret served on Executive Council as a National Officer for over 24 years. She also served on the Robbie Page Memorial Foundation and Sigma Sigma Sigma Education Foundation. Margaret received many awards for service to Tri Sigma, culminating in the Founders Award at Convention. Margaret passed away in 2016. Violenda Seppala Nelson Scholarship Violenda Seppala Nelson, Omicron—Eastern Michigan University, was a dedicated Tri Sigma. Grosse Pointe Alumnae Chapter endowed this fund to honor Violenda’s service to Tri Sigma. Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter Scholarship Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter endowed this fund to support collegiate members in Virginia chapters with excellent character and scholastic competency. The scholarship aims to acknowledge collegiate women of excellence by providing awards to assist with their educational endeavors. Joyce Newcom O'Daniel Scholarship Joyce Newcom O’Daniel, Alpha Chi—Murray State University, was Tri Sigma’s 15th National President. Joyce has previously served as National Vice President on Executive Council as well as various other roles with the national organization impacting areas of recruitment and Panhellenic relations. She has also held multiple offices in Phoenix Alumnae Chapter including chapter president. Joyce’s positive influence extends beyond her commitment to Tri Sigma. She has served as chair and vice chair of her legislative district in Arizona and was a State Committee Representative. She was a highly respected mortgage broker and area manager for a major financial institution. After retiring in 2018, she opened three successful small businesses. Phoenix Alumnae Chapter endowed this fund to honor Joyce’s sincere and lifelong commitment to Tri Sigma. This scholarship will ensure Joyce’s positive influence continues to empower Tri Sigma women for years to come. Karen Lynn Pratt Memorial Scholarship Karen Lynn Pratt joined Nu—University of Central Missouri in April 1959. After her death in 2015, Karen left an estate gift to the Foundation to endow a fund to benefit Nu chapter. Nu chapter members completed the endowment in 2019. This scholarship is awarded annually with preference given to a member of Nu chapter. Bonnie L. Rainey Scholarship Bonnie L. Rainey, Alpha Sigma—University of Southern Mississippi, endowed this fund in 2018. Bonnie served as chair of the Foundation Board of Directors from 2017-2022 and has dedicated more than 18 years of service to our philanthropy. Bonnie believes that education is key to unlocking our sisters’ futures—giving them the exposure and leadership experiences needed to make a difference in the world. When her employer announced that they would be matching donations for scholarships, Bonnie knew she wanted to ensure her legacy lived on by endowing a scholarship that would benefit her Tri Sigma sisters. Each year, Bonnie’s scholarship impacts another Tri Sigma sister, making it possible to continue their journeys and become the leaders our world needs. Louisa Replogle Scholarship Louisa Roudebush Replogle was a member of Beta Epsilon—Western Illinois University. Phoenix Alumnae Chapter endowed this fund to honor Louisa’s dedication to Tri Sigma. Ann & Charlie Rutkowski Scholarship Ann DeCecco Rutkowski, Epsilon Delta—Gannon University, endowed this fund with her husband Charlie. Ann and Charlie value education and know how their lives were impacted because of their college experiences. It is their desire to help others have the same opportunity that they had. Diana Sarber Scholarship Diana Hornick Sarber, Beta Mu—University of Central Oklahoma, was Tri Sigma’s 10th National President. Diana pursued her lifelong membership with nearly 30 years of service in various volunteer positions, including NPC Delegate (1986-1995) and National President (1995-2001). Much was accomplished under her leadership, and her words have left an indelible mark. In her Convention Address, Diana said, “We are responsible for ensuring that the legacy of our Founders will be preserved and that the future will be full of promise and hope. Their vision is our inheritance. Allegiance to one another and our Sisterhood is a bond that can never be broken. It is the essence of who we are.” Diana passed away in 2019. This scholarship is awarded annually to a member with financial need. Preference is given to residents or students in the state of Oklahoma. Kaye Schendel Scholarship Kaye Schendel, Gamma Phi—University of Wisconsin-River Falls, was Tri Sigma’s 13th National President. Kaye has served Tri Sigma in many ways, including National Vice President, vice chair of the Tri Sigma Foundation, and various national volunteer positions. Kaye’s career has been in service to fraternity and sorority life, and her work has been recognized with several awards, including the Vision Award from Alpha Chi Omega, the Jack L. Anson Award from the Association of Fraternity and Sorority Advisors, and the Adele Williamson Research Award from the Center for the Study of the College Fraternity. Kaye continues to give to Tri Sigma and impact members as an active member in Twin Cities and Wisconsin Fox Valley Alumnae Chapters and advising Theta Kappa—University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. This scholarship ensures Kaye’s passion will continue to impact the women of Tri Sigma for years to come. Doris Hiles Schroeder Scholarship Doris Hiles Tabor Schroeder joined Alpha Epsilon—Northwest Missouri State University in 1936 and was member of Tri Sigma for 77 years. She was a professor of education at California State University for 30 years and an avid volunteer in Tri Sigma. She held many positions including chapter president of Alpha Epsilon; president of Omaha-Council Bluffs, San Diego, and Long Beach Alumnae Chapters; National Parliamentarian; and Corresponding Secretary. Her awards include Emily Gates Achievement Award (1970), Alumna Recognition Award (1982), Steadfast Alumna Citation (1999), Woman of Distinction Award (2004), and Founders Award (2010). Doris passed away in 2021 at the age of 94. The fund was endowed by a bequest from Doris and by her friends and sisters. Doris once wrote about meeting Mabel Lee Walton and the impact of becoming a member: "I first met Mabel Lee Walton, former National President of Sigma Sigma Sigma, in 1936 when Mabel Lee made her official visit to Alpha Epsilon Chapter where I was a sixteen-year-old freshman pledge. I promised always to be a model Tri Sigma in all thoughts, words, and deeds. My parents had lovingly taught me the breadth, length, and depth of a promise, and to a 16-year-old that seemed almost overwhelming, so that first meeting with Mabel Lee made a powerful impact upon me." Dixie Cremeans Shelton Scholarship Dixie Cremeans Shelton, Alpha Alpha—Concord University and Houston Alumnae Chapter, endowed this fund in 2012 with her husband Robert Shelton to aid Tri Sigma sisters studying to become child life or play therapists. Helen Marie Eggert Snyder Memorial Scholarship Helen Marie Eggert Snyder, Alpha Xi—University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, was Tri Sigma’s 7th National President from 1971-1983. Helen’s family and friends endowed this fund after her death in 2007. Stephanie Sabol Strom Scholarship Stephanie Sabol Strom, Beta Iota—Minot State University, endowed this fund in 2013. The scholarship is awarded annually to the highest ranked scholarship applicant. Stephanie is a former board member for the Tri Sigma Foundation and volunteer. She is from Plano, TX. Mable Kane Stryker Memorial Graduate Scholarship Mable Kane Stryker, Pi—Emporia State University, served as National Vice President and National Treasurer. This fund was endowed in 1950 to honor “Stryker” for her service to Tri Sigma and lifelong involvement in education. The scholarship is designated for members pursuing a graduate degree. The Stryker Scholarship is one of the earlier endowments of the Foundation. It is part of the Pearl Scholarships with one scholarship awarded annually and named in rotating order between Walton and Stryker. Carl J. & Shirley L. Ursprung Memorial Scholarship The Carl J. & Shirley L. Ursprung Memorial fund was endowed by Catherine M. Ursprung, Alpha Nu—Southern Illinois University Carbondale and Phoenix and Denver Area Alumnae Chapters, to honor the memory of her hardworking and loving parents. Carl was a dedicated and successful dairy and grain farmer. Shirley was a professional seamstress and dedicated 4H leader who raised six children. The scholarship is awarded annually with preference given to a member pursuing a degree in Agriculture Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Animal Sciences or Family and Consumer Sciences. Carolyn White Wallisch Scholarship Carolyn White Wallisch joined Iota—University of Northern Colorado in the spring of 1958. She was unwavering and steadfast in her commitment and devotion to Tri Sigma. Carolyn held many positions in Denver Area Alumnae chapter including president, philanthropy chair, Founders Day chair, and helped create the endowment fund and playroom for Denver Children's Hospital. She dedicated her career to education, including roles as principal, elementary teacher, leader on PTA and advisory boards, Cub Scout and Girl Scout Leader, Sunday School teacher and much more. This fund was endowed by Denver Area Alumnae Chapter in memory of Carolyn and her devotion to Tri Sigma after her death in March 2018. Winnie Warner Alpha Beta Scholarship Winnie Wilson Warner, Alpha Beta—Kent State University, has served on Alpha Beta’s Chapter Advisory Board since 1992. She encourages each collegiate woman to become the "greatest version of yourself" and represent her sorority with honor and dignity. When Alpha Beta needed a campus home, Winnie spearheaded efforts to build a safe, new chapter house. Now, Winnie has endowed this fund to create a legacy that will always benefit her beloved Tri Sigma sisters in Alpha Beta. The scholarship is awarded annually to a member who represents our saying "to receive much, you must give much" and makes every effort to move Tri Sigma "above and beyond" into the future. Mabel Lee Walton Scholarship Mabel Lee Walton, Gamma—Randolph College, was Tri Sigma’s 3rd National President from 1913-1947. Mabel Lee represented the finest in Sigma leadership and devoted herself to Tri Sigma. This fund was endowed by the membership at the 1974 National Convention to recognize members who display outstanding leadership in the sorority, on their campuses, and in their communities. The Walton Scholarship is one of the earlier endowments of the Foundation. It is part of the Pearl Scholarships with one scholarship awarded annually and named in rotating order between Walton and Stryker. Barbara Moseley Welsh Scholarship Barbara Moseley Welsh, Beta Tau—University of Detroit Mercy and Grosse Pointe Alumnae Chapter, was a longtime volunteer for the Foundation, a National Officer, and editor of The Triangle for many years. This fund was endowed in her memory after her sudden death in 2003. Michael Welsh Scholarship Michael Welsh was the husband of Barbara Moseley Welsh, Beta Tau—University of Detroit Mercy and Grosse Pointe Alumnae Chapter. Barbara endowed this fund in memory of Mike to honor the love he had for Tri Sigma and Barb’s sisters. This is the first Foundation scholarship named for a man. Shelby Whitten Memorial Scholarship Shelby Whitten, Eta Omicron—Sam Houston State University, was a dedicated member of Tri Sigma and was passionate about being involved in the community to give back. Shelby never knew a stranger, and whenever she walked into a room, she brought positive energy and joy that would always make you smile and laugh. Members of Eta Omicron chapter endowed this fund in memory of Shelby after her sudden death in the spring of 2018. While she was taken from the world too soon, she has taught so many others to continue their passions and dreams in life, to live their life to the fullest, and to never give up no matter what challenges come your way. Preference for this scholarship is given to a member of Eta Omicron chapter. Ann Buchler Williams Scholarship Ann Buchler Williams, charter member of Gamma Eta— Loyola University New Orleans, was Tri Sigma’s 9th National President. Ann is a longtime volunteer and dedicated 15 years of service to Tri Sigma’s Executive Council. New Orleans Alumnae Chapter endowed this scholarship to honor Ann’s dedication to Tri Sigma. Funds in the Process of Endowment Scholarship Endowments Lori Yokich Taylor Scholarship Established by Lori Taylor, her husband Tony, and additional contributors. "Since my initiation in 1980 at EMU’s Omicron chapter, Sigma Sigma Sigma has been such a meaningful part of my life. From serving in officer and chairmanship roles in my collegiate chapter to staying active with my alumnae chapter, I’ve experienced firsthand the power of our sisterhood to inspire, support, and uplift women. As an alumna, I’ve been honored to serve in national officer roles and on the Tri Sigma Foundation Board. Working on the Foundation’s Scholarship and Grants Committees opened my eyes to the incredible potential of our sisters. It inspired me to help expand the opportunities available to them. We can support the dreams of so many deserving women through these scholarships, and I’m grateful to play a small part in that. The Tri Sigma Foundation is truly near and dear to my heart. I feel honored and humbled to share this sisterhood with so many accomplished women. I believe deeply that the more we can give, the more we can help our sisters achieve great things. I hope that this scholarship will help sisters pursue their passions, grow as leaders, and carry forward the lifelong bonds and values that Sigma Sigma Sigma instills in them." Donate to help endow this scholarship Michelle Tantillo Leading with Values Endowment Michelle Tantillo, Epsilon Omicron–Illinois State University, has established this fund to support the lifelong learning of Tri Sigma members. “Finding a home in our Sigma sisterhood has been one of my life’s greatest fortunes—a bond built upon a bedrock of shared values that guide and unite us. My commitment to supporting lifelong learning empowers Sigmas to continually grow, both as individuals and as a collective.” Michelle said. By investing in the Foundation, Michelle believes we can ensure that leadership opportunities rooted in our values continue to enrich the lives of sisters for generations to come, strengthening the sorority that has given so much to so many.

Silver Society recognizes loyal donors who have given to the Tri Sigma Foundation for 25 consecutive years or more. Silver Society Silver Society recognizes loyal donors who have given to the Tri Sigma Foundation for 25 consecutive years or more. Silver Society was established at the Foundation's 25th anniversary celebration in 2017 to honor the donors who have supported us from the beginning. Past Foundation Chair Bonnie L. Rainey shared, "I remember being at the 1992 Convention when we announced that Robbie Page Memorial Fund and the Educational Foundation would merge to create the Tri Sigma Foundation. Thinking back to when the Foundation was formed, there have been leaders who made giving each year a priority. I cannot thank them all enough for making the Foundation's mission possible." Join the Silver Society You can join the Silver Society by making the Foundation a philanthropic priority each year and giving annually until you reach 25 years in consecutive giving. For more information about the Silver Society, email foundation@trisigma.org . Silver Society Members Listing as of August 1, 2025 Kappa—Miami University Carol Ryckman Frost Rho—Florida State University Mary Crumpton Brown Polly Wingfield Horne Chi—Pittsburg State University Cathy Duffin Albright Alpha Alpha—Concord University Dixie Cremeans Shelton Alpha Epsilon—Northwest Missouri State University Bobbi Walker Smith Alpha Zeta—Northwestern State University Rhonda Regouffre Hodo Alpha Pi—PennWest Clarion Kathy Anderson Hedden Alpha Sigma—University of Southern Mississippi Bonnie L. Rainey Alpha Upsilon—James Madison University Shirley Mowles McKinley RoseMarie Merritt Mirabella Alpha Phi—Central Michigan University Jackie Paris King Alpha Psi—Eastern Illinois University Jackie Williams Goreham Carol Gregory Swango Beta Gamma—Ball State University Marcia Cutter Kara Eaton Rees Beta Epsilon—Western Illinois University Doris Roudebush Black Beta Kappa—Arizona State University Maryellen Drasler Baxter Bethany Deines Bette Blythe Lewis Beta Lambda—University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Cj Havlik Donovan Kathy Heinen Thoren Beta Xi—Southeast Missouri State University Marilyn McGraw Beiter Liz Wakeman Hoffert Jan Stroker Horner Beta Pi—University of Wisconsin-Stout Krista Bethke-Peterson Beta Rho—Western Michigan University Karen Adams Mary Jo Zylstra Bristol Beta Tau—University of Detroit Mercy Mary Bussone-Neam Barb Stoe Stone Gamma Eta—Loyola University of New Orleans Mandy Meehan Chocheles Ann Buchler Williams Gamma Kappa—Marietta College JeanMarie Komyathy Mattingly Gamma Mu—Southeastern Louisiana University Suzan Rome Bosarge Ann Hammond Seymour Gamma Rho—PennWest Edinboro Carolyn Miller Garofalo Delta Xi—Loyola Marymount University Marie Androsevic Rees Epsilon Theta—Oglethorpe University SAM! Mills Farrell Epsilon Rho—Minnesota State University-Mankato Linda Manley-Kuitu

The Tri Sigma Foundation secures and provides enduring resources to support the leadership development, scholarship, and philanthropic initiatives of Sigma Sigma Sigma. Our Mission The Tri Sigma Foundation secures and provides enduring resources to support the leadership development, scholarship, and philanthropic initiatives of Sigma Sigma Sigma. Our Values In everything we do, we seek to positively impact the members of Tri Sigma by focusing on developing donor relationships and acting with integrity. Our Vision To pave the way for empowering Tri Sigmas to change the world.

Paula Marie Gillis Beta Tau—University of Detroit Mercy Paula Gillis earned her Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering and graduated with honors in 2003. She was an exceptional student who excelled in a challenging discipline rarely comprised of women. Through her collegiate years, Paula held numerous chapter offices and chair positions, including Chapter President. She was instrumental in revitalizing the chapter, personally recruiting many members, and creating tremendous personal bonds with generations of women. During her short life, Paula touched so many hearts truly embodied what Tri Sigma members should strive to be.    In 2023, Paula’s chapter sisters and family began fundraising for the Paula M. Gillis Memorial Endowment to honor their beloved sister and continue her legacy of empowering others. The Paula M. Gillis Memorial Endowment will fund annual scholarships to support Tri Sigma women with a special focus on Beta Tau members and women in STEM.     “It's hard to put how amazing Paula was into words. She excelled at everything, including being an amazing daughter, sister, and friend. Losing her has truly been hard, but we have all grown closer together helping to fund this scholarship in her memory. The opportunity to spend time together, whether through planning events or just catching up, has truly meant the world to her Beta Tau sisters, friends, and family. Paula truly valued her education, and we cannot think of a better way to honor her than to give that gift to others,” said Paula's chapter sister Sue Fronath Bergstrom.    The Paula M. Gillis Memorial Endowment Fund will provide merit-based scholarships to Tri Sigma undergraduate or graduate students with a focus on Beta Tau members or women pursuing STEM degrees. Click here to learn more about this endowment and others.

Pamela Minoski Runac Gamma Zeta–Slippery Rock University I was always a quiet young girl, more comfortable in the background than at the center of things. That changed during my sophomore year at Slippery Rock University, when I joined Tri Sigma. It was in Sigma that I truly found my voice. Sometimes I stop and ask myself, "What would I have done without my sisters and the experiences we shared?" The leadership positions I took on and the lifelong friendships I built gave me the confidence and strength to navigate so many parts of life, motherhood, my career, and the challenges and lessons along the way.  To think there were only two spots open that year in a chapter of 65 members, I still feel so grateful that one of those spots was mine.  Recently, I volunteered as a scholarship reader for the Foundation. Reading letters from young Sigmas and learning about their journeys and struggles brought me right back to my own college days. It reminded me of just how impactful Tri Sigma was in helping me discover who I was and the power of my own voice. That experience inspired me to take my giving one step further. Endowing a scholarship felt like the best way to give back and ensure future Tri Sigmas have the same opportunities I did: to be lifted up, to find their confidence, and to know that their sisters and this sisterhood will always believe in them. I hope my gift reminds every young Sigma that they have a voice that matters and that they have sisters cheering them on every step of the way. If I could give every sister one piece of advice, it would be this: embrace the moments that push you forward, lean on your sisters, and never underestimate the power of finding your voice. That’s why I give, and why I will always give back to Sigma. The Minoski-Runac Family Scholarship will support need-based undergraduate or graduate students pursuing a major or minor in special education. The scholarship awards will encourage and prepare the next generation of educators dedicated to fostering inclusive learning environments and meeting the unique needs of students with disabilities. Click here to learn more about this endowment and others.

Julie Lammel Alpha Sigma–University of Southern Mississippi Julie Lammel (right) at Convention 2025 with Kathy Rayburn Kopperud (center right), Past National President Joyce Newcom O'Daniel (center left), and Donna Grogan Herndon (left). When Julie joined the Heritage Society years ago, she imagined her planned gift as a legacy for the future—something that would strengthen Tri Sigma long after her own membership journey was complete. But as she stayed engaged, Julie began to see a growing need; chapters were working hard to thrive amidst slowing recruitment numbers, limited chapter resources, and growing mental health concerns among collegiate women.   Julie recognized something familiar in their challenges. She remembered what it felt like to keep a chapter going during difficult seasons, the weight of responsibility, the desire to do right by her sisters, and the hope that the chapter she loved would be there for the next generation. Those memories stirred something more profound: a wish to help today’s women navigate those same pressures with strength, skill, and support.   So, Julie made a powerful decision. She transformed her planned gift into an immediate investment, establishing the Julie Lammel Leadership Endowment, a fund created to uplift under-resourced chapters and help them grow stronger, more confident, and more connected.     Her endowment provides practical support for collegians who need financial assistance to participate in leadership development and educational opportunities. In simple terms, it helps ensure that a member’s potential to lead is never limited by her chapter’s budget or her own financial circumstances. Whether it’s officer training, development programs, or educational experiences that build confidence and capability, Julie’s gift opens doors that might have otherwise remained closed.   The heart of this fund is bigger than local grants. It’s about sustaining our Tri Sigma sisterhood, ensuring that chapters can weather hard times, build strong foundations, and continue shaping generations of women who learn, lead, and thrive together.    Julie often says her hope is simple: that every chapter, no matter its size or resources, has the chance to flourish. Through this endowment, she is lighting that path forward, showing today’s sisters that they are seen, supported, and never alone, and ensuring that tomorrow’s sisters will inherit a sisterhood strengthened by her generosity.    Her gift started as a legacy for the future. Today, it’s transforming the present. And for countless Sigmas, that impact will be felt for generations.    The Julie Lammel Leadership Endowment will provide grants to under-resourced chapters to support educational opportunities and leadership training development. Click here to learn more about this endowment and others.