Dear Sisters,

 

When the first National Council was elected at our inaugural convention in 1905 at the Hotel Richmond in Richmond, VA, our pioneering sisters created a fundamental model of service. They understood that organizations that endure and thrive are those that plan with intention, act with purpose and adapt with wisdom. Today’s National Council embraces this same spirit of visionary leadership.

 

Over the past year, your National Council has engaged in relationship building, organizational assessment and strategic planning efforts that reflect our commitment to elevating the influence of women in the world while staying true to our core purpose of cultivating friendship among members who are known for their character and concern for others.

 

National Council service is not about one person making decisions. Instead, it’s like a symphony where each councilor brings their unique expertise, perspective and passion to create something greater than the sum of its parts. Alpha Sigma Alpha’s closed motto is central to National Council service—all past, current and future national councilors make great sacrifices of time from loved ones, career and other commitments for our greater purpose: Alpha Sigma Alpha’s mission. This seven-member collaborative model recognizes that today’s complex challenges facing nonprofits—from shifting community needs to evolving higher education landscapes—demand the diverse perspectives and collective competencies that only a team of dedicated volunteers can provide.

 

As a board, National Council remains focused on organizational needs and long-term results. Individual members are not competing for authority or recognition. Instead, we complement each other’s strengths, professionally challenge each other’s perspectives and hold each other accountable for our shared purpose. As national president, I facilitate the collective leadership that makes strategic decisions, work alongside the foundation and sorority housing board chairs to foster alignment across Alpha Sigma Alpha’s strategic endeavors and collaborate with the executive director.

 

The work of National Council comes with significant responsibility and mental challenges, but it is also extremely rewarding. Each biennium, seven alumnae members give of themselves for the betterment of Alpha Sigma Alpha. We believe that the world needs Alpha Sigma Alpha, and we believe that our membership is uniquely positioned to offer a distinctive sorority experience. The process for next year’s elections will begin soon, and National Council is excited for alumnae sisters to consider applying. Your volunteer service and professional roles in other sectors bring great benefit to our organization. We need a cross-section of competencies, experiences and perspectives to plan and care for Alpha Sigma Alpha.

 

While this service requires great commitment, you will gain new friendships, late nights of laughter, professional and personal growth beyond measure, a deeper understanding of yourself, a greater appreciation for Alpha Sigma Alpha and the knowledge that you are working to provide an exceptional sorority experience for future members.

 

With sisterly love and endless gratitude for your trust in National Council’s leadership,

 

Amber Shaverdi Huston, HH
National President