Convention 2006 Highlights

Convention 2006 brought together more than 700 Gamma Phi Beta sisters for Sunsets, Saguaros & Sisterhood!

The Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa proved to be a perfect setting for inspiring Gamma Phi Beta leaders to connect with each other, impact lives and shine forever.

At the Welcome Dinner, sisters were greeted at the door by the local Convention committee and asked to take a feather to select their dinner table companions. Attendees had the opportunity to meet new sisters from all over the United States and Canada. Many were introduced to the significance of the saguaro cactus, and how it can be similar to the spirit of Gamma Phi Beta in stature and ability to exist for hundreds of years.

J.J. Kaelin, Sorority Director - Public Relations, proudly unveiled Gamma Phi Beta's new logo, focusing on brown, pink and the waxing moon, and tagline: Connect. Impact. Shine.

The Awards Dinner was a star-studded event, properly themed "An Evening with our Stars." The night was full of surprises and glee, enthusiasm and pride. It was a perfect tribute to our members and chapters that shine among us!

The Gamma Phi Beta Foundation encouraged all Convention attendees to focus on the fun in fundraising. Jocelyn Birch Burdick (Northwestern) and Joyce Canavan Stewart (Southern California) were honored with the Philanthropist Award.

On Friday, Dr. Karen Holbrook, president of The Ohio State University, presented an inspiring keynote speech, illustrating how she became a successful academic and university administrator and emphasizing the importance of self-confidence in reaching one's goals. We are all proud to call Karen our sister!

Gamma Phi Betas rocked the desert at the Confirmed Conventioneers dinner honoring those members who have attended five or more Conventions. Our parade and celebration were once again led by Mary Jane Hipp Misthos, attending her 29^th International Convention!

Gloria Nelson was named to Gamma Phi Beta's Honor Roll at the final business session on Saturday morning. Gloria received the prestigious award for her extensive contributions to the Sorority and to the National Panhellenic Conference throughout the years.

Our National Panhellenic Conference delegation, led by Betty Quick, NPC Chairman and Gamma Phi Beta's Panhellenic Affairs Vice President, helped us celebrate Panhellenic sisterhood as we welcomed representatives of many other NPC member groups at Saturday's Panhellenic Luncheon.

We all hated to see that final sunset on Saturday night. Convention closed with the Pink Carnation Banquet, where more than 700 women celebrated the bonds of our sisterhood. During the Pink Carnation banquet, the Carnation Award was presented to these talented and distinguished alumnae members:

• Kathleen Madland Kowalski Trakofler
• Paula Janis Dean
• L'Cena Brunskill Rice
• Marion Pfaender Downs

Many dedicated alumnae extended their Convention experience a few hours, attending the first-ever Sunday Alumnae Training Workshop. All participants agreed that this educational session was one of their best Convention experiences.

It was a wonderful week of renewing old and creating new friendships. Convention 2006 will truly be remembered as one of our Sorority's shining moments!

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