Gendered Language

At Grand Convention a few weeks ago, delegates were presented with legislation on using more gender-inclusive language in the Constitution and Bylaws. Recommendations included changing pronouns and words like "woman," "women," and "sisterhood." 

The delegation debated each issue with intelligence, support, and respect. Regardless, this legislation did not pass and was subsequently withdrawn. Following this, the delegation voted on a resolution to establish a task force to examine the broader implications of changing gendered language for the organization.  

Until the task force has had the opportunity to meet and provide recommendations, Theta’s brand and voice will continue to use “woman,” “women,” and “sisterhood” when appropriate. Gender-inclusive pronouns will also be used, and "member" and "members" will be used when they fit best with the content. When communicating with individual members, always use preferred pronouns if they have disclosed what they prefer.  

Please note that Grand Council has added the following language to accompany the Constitution and Bylaws and the Ritual Book: The use of she/her pronouns in these laws/this document keeps the language simple and clear. We recognize, acknowledge, and embrace that some members do not use she/her pronouns. 

In addition, Theta’s non-discrimination statement has been added to all officer manuals and member handbooks.  

Kappa Alpha Theta does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital/family status, sexual orientation, gender presentation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include but are not limited to recruitment and discipline of members, selection of volunteers, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members. 

If you have questions about language or verbiage usage, please contact Communications Manager & Editor Isabella Markovski-Dickey or Chief Marketing Officer Julianne Butler.  

Job Opening at Theta Headquarters

A finance coordinator position has been posted with a job description and application instructions. This Indy-based job would be the perfect fit for entry-level finance candidates; please encourage qualified individuals to apply!

ThetaConnect

ThetaConnect is the destination to connect or reconnect with your chapter, meet up with old friends, offer and receive professional help, find out about events happening in your area, and join interest groups. Did you know the ThetaConnect feed is the most viewed page on the platform? To interact with other Thetas, you can write a post, upload a photo, attach a file, and tag others in your network. Click on the three dots on the top right of the post to edit, report, or delete. If you like something that someone else has written, you can like their post or add a comment. The feed is your window into the ThetaConnect network.

Please contact Digital Marketing Coordinator Madi Massey with general ThetaConnect questions or regarding how you can use ThetaConnect for member programming.

Member Orientation Updates

Theta's member orientation program received a refresh this summer. While much of the program remains similar, we do have a few highlights of what we changed.

• New online modules: With the debut of our new learning management system (LMS), we updated our online modules. These modules provide a great way for all new members to receive consistent content in an engaging way using videos and other interactive components. With the LMS, education officers and advisors will be able to track which members have completed the modules.
• Discussion based/Focus on Connection and Community: The in-person modules have transitioned to discussion-based rather than lecture-based. While there are times for educating the new members, we included small group discussion time for new members to get to know one another and build community, belonging, and trust with one another. 
• Emphasis on Small Group Leaders: The new in-person modules require the use of small group leaders. These are chapter members who will attend new member meetings weekly and help lead discussion. Each small group leader will have their own small group of new members. The number of small group leaders your chapter uses will depend on chapter size.
• New Module Topics: Previously, the module topics highlighted each of our values. The new module topics encompass the experience of being a Theta in its full capacity. The four topics are as titled:
  • Welcome to Theta! - Ins & outs of being a chapter member
  • Theta 101 - History, philanthropy, values, etc.
  • Leadership & Your Theta Community - Leadership, equity, and inclusion
  • Ritual & Lifelong Membership - Ritual review and Theta after graduation

Previously, the member orientation program included both a mentor program and a big/little program. We have removed the mentor program and put emphasis on the big/little program. If chapters find success in implementing mentors or various forms of new member and active member pairings outside of the big/little program, they can continue doing so. Having small group leaders will serve as another connection outside of the big/little relationship for new members.

Theta Blogs

• Theta Foundation Is Making a Difference for Good
• FFE's 2024 Outstanding Philanthropist: Cindy Stellhorn

Helpful Links

• ThetaConnect
• Workforce Contact Information
• Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
• Previous Updates