Calling ALL US DKG Members: Get Ready to Attend the US Forum 2024 National Legislative Seminar, March 10-13th!

The US Forum Steering Committee has been very busy planning an exciting and informative seminar in Washington DC. We hope you will join us for this unique, signature event that is only offered to DKG members every two years.

The National Legislative Seminar takes place at the Holiday Inn National Airport, Crystal City, just a short distance from the sights and sounds of our nation’s capital. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to learn from experts on the key issues identified by DKG members, hone your advocacy skills, and discuss solutions with members from across the country and with your congressional representatives in the House and Senate!

Registration for the seminar is $340.00 and includes all meals. You can register and pay online or download the registration form and pay by check. Go to www.dkgusforum.org to complete your registration and find out about reserving your hotel room.

Just a reminder that the deadline to reserve a room at the seminar rate of $129.00 is Tuesday, February 6^th! Don’t delay. The phone number to contact the hotel for a reservation is listed on the Registration Form. You will also find this number on the US Forum website, www.dkgusforum.org.

A full schedule of engaging speakers and activities, both at the hotel and in Washington, DC, is being planned for you. Did you know that during the National Legislative Seminar, you can participate in a wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, learn about women and education Issues in the upcoming legislative session, understand how the federal government is helping to improve mental health services for all Americans, and gain a better idea of the ways that artificial intelligence systems will impact teaching and learning in the very near future?

You’ll even get to meet some of the Senators and Representatives from your home state during the Day on the Hill event on Tuesday, March 12^th!

Don't miss this amazing opportunity to join with fellow DKG members to learn, grow, and advocate for women, children, and education in our nation’s beautiful Capitol! Register now at www.dkgusforum.org.

See you in DC in March!

Chapter-to-Chapter Exchange

When DKG members attend international events, in person and online, they often meet members from other regions or countries. Learning about DKG and educational practices in other places is one of the advantages of being a part of the Society. The International Issues Task Force wanted to find a way to help chapters make these extended connections without leaving their own community.

The Chapter-to-Chapter Exchange program invites chapters to make connections with fellow members in other countries or regions. Members might share educational information from their region, how their local members are involved in DKG, and other personal stories. Formats for exchanges can include email, video conferences, recorded videos, Padlet, or any other platform that works for both partners. It’s up to each chapter. 

Members and chapters may log onto the new Chapter-to-Chapter Exchange Community on dkg.org at MyDKG > Communities > Chapter-to-Chapter Exchange to find a partner.

Here are a couple of stories of European connections from recent years:

Netherlands and Norway

In June 2019, three members of DKG Netherlands accepted Norway's invitation to attend an anniversary meeting in Kristiansand.

Janny Kisteman, Jeannine de Jong and Marie-Antoinette Hubers were warmly welcomed by Astrid Bie Skaaland and stayed there for four nights. They visited schools, museums and the famous Ravnedalen park in Kristiansand.

They learned a lot from each other, and the intention was that a group of members from Norway would go to The Netherlands in May 2020. Unfortunately, this has not taken place due to the Corona epidemic, but new plans are being made.

Netherlands and Germany

Last spring, the Epsilon chapter in The Netherlands organized an exchange with a chapter in Germany.

The German guests visited Groningen where they had a beautiful day together. They visited the Groninger Museum, went on top of the Forum in Groningen and had a delicious dinner together.

Next year the Netherlands chapter hopes to visit Germany!

The International Task Force hopes that members will embrace the Chapter-to-Chapter program and use the power of technology to enjoy DKG fellowship with friends across the globe.

Local Nonprofits and DKG

In whatever region of DKG you may live, your community relies on contributions for support of their local nonprofits. Our chapters are very generous in supporting those in need. This support can come in many forms – monetary, supplies, or time and volunteerism. 

Monetary gifts are always appreciated. These gifts can then be allocated to the areas of greatest need. Sometimes, these nonprofits specify what a certain amount can provide for the year. An example would be The Food Group in our community that states a gift of $500 feeds a child during the school year in their weekly individual food bags. Gift cards can also be very helpful. These allow the nonprofit to pass these cards along to the recipients of their non-profit. Two such groups are Big Brothers Big Sisters and Habitat for Humanity. Big Brothers and Big Sisters encourage gift cards to local establishments such as movie theaters, bowling alleys, and skating rinks. Habitat for Humanity families have great needs when they move into their new homes and gift cards for groceries or home supplies are very welcome. 

Shopping can be great fun when you have a list of specific items requested by your local nonprofit. DKG chapters often focus on assisting women and children in their areas. Groups like Foster Parent Exchanges, Advocacy and Resource Centers, and Child Development Centers develop wish lists of items they can most use with their clients. Some are seasonal like coats, mittens, and socks. Others include the on-going need for hygiene products, appropriate toys, books, or games. A local equine assisted therapy program listed the need for English and Western saddle covers as well as 6-foot cotton lead ropes. 

DKG members are regularly found donating their time, energy, and talent to local non-profits. Sometimes projects are a one-time event while others carry on for an indefinite time. Events can include annual fund-raising opportunities by the nonprofit. Volunteers would assist with planning, setup, and cleanup. Weekly or flexible time occasions could include dog and cat aides at shelters, trail maintenance at parks or refuges, docents at museums or galleries, or construction volunteers. 

What are you and your chapter members interested in? What is your favorite cause? Your local nonprofits are just waiting for your chapter to get going with your support. Monetary, supplies, or time – any of these or all three are much appreciated. 

Enhancing DKG Programs through the Magic of Books

The Educators Book Award Committee always encourages state organizations and chapters to use books to enhance their programs. It is one way of keeping members actively involved in DKG and a positive step to retain active members. There is a list of many program ideas for using books during meetings. The list is available on dkg.org>About>Ed Book Award Winners>Suggestions for Using Educators Award Books.

A few examples of how state organizations and chapters use books to enhance their programs are:

• A state organization held a Fall Conference that offered Personal Growth and Professional Development workshops. One of the workshop choices was a book discussion group that was not a Book Award recipient but a current best seller.
• Two chapters held a joint meeting that included a book discussion of an award-winner and an exchange of used books.
• One chapter donated an award-winning book to their local library.

The Educators Book Award Committee loves to hear from chapters about the unique ways they use the award-winning books in their programs.

Live Art Gallery Returns with Continued Momentum

Exciting Opportunity for Artists During the 2024 DKG International Convention:

National Harbor, Maryland – July 9 - 13, 2024

 

Calling all DKG creative artists to the beautiful shores of National Harbor, Maryland, for a chance to participate in the Arts Gallery at the DKG International Convention.  The Arts and Humanities Jury Committee is excited to announce the return of the Creative Arts Gallery at the DKG International Convention in National Harbor, Maryland, July 9 -13, 2024.  The Art Gallery showcases our members’ talents in the visual and literary arts, photography and musical composition and has grown in interest with our membership. This multi-faceted art exhibit will take place during the convention and be open for viewing on select days in the Expo area of the convention, respectively, for attendees’ enjoyment. The Arts and Humanities Jury Committee looks forward to many of our members sharing their variety of talents and creativity with our international audience. Please do not miss out on this great opportunity to highlight your creative expression, whatever that may be.

 

The application process is an easy format and follows the Art Gallery submission categories and format.  Here are details to consider as you prepare to share your art with the gallery.

Application Process: One DKG member may submit one work of art. Work submitted must be original (not from kits), one-of-a-kind, and creative. All media, both two-dimensional and three-dimensional, will be considered. Creative writing can be displayed on two panels displayed side by side. This includes but is not limited to painting, drawing, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, photography, quilting, embroidery, needlepoint, stained glass, or mosaic. Artists must upload an image of their entry to be reviewed by the Arts and Humanities Jury. Entry selection will reflect the most originality, quality, and space limitations of the venue. Note: Submissions will not be accepted that violate the Society's position on inclusivity (religion, race, sexual orientation/gender, etc.) 

All applicants must be current Delta Kappa Gamma members. The application process for the Convention Art Gallery will be open from February 15, 2024, to April 15, 2024. All entries must be submitted by 11:00 p.m. EST, on April 15, 2024.  The selection of artists will be conducted by the Arts and Humanities Jury Committee by April 22, 2024.  All accepted artists will be notified by that date by email from the Jury Committee. Members must apply via Application for the Member Art Gallery found on the Events tab > 2024 International Convention from the dkg.org website.

Empowering Educators: Why Attend the 2024 DKG International Convention?

Registration and schedule information is being finalized now for the 2024 DKG International Convention which will take place July 9th-13th in National Harbor Maryland. Convention attendees will enjoy the lovely accommodations at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. Members choosing air travel will find Reagan Washington National Airport closest to this venue. 

Knowing location and date details is important, but why should our members consider taking time and spending money to attend? This is a question that has been voiced by members during discussions with DKG Leadership. While being cognizant of the concerns, it is important to note that there is a long list of reasons why our members should make attending an International Convention a priority. The first reason comes in the last sentence. We are an international organization and the best way to accomplish business is by bringing members from around the globe together. DKG promotes and uses technology to provide virtual meeting opportunities, but that never compares to having people in one room together. For those that have attended an International event, they will share stories of seeing old friends, who were met solely by attending a conference or convention. 

In even numbered years, such as 2024, elections and constitutional amendments will be voted upon. Currently, only convention attendees are able to vote. Without members in attendance, important decisions are made by a small percentage of members. Our leadership, our goals, possibly even our name are determined by those “in the room’. 

Well known speakers along with many of our colleagues, present information on a plethora of topics. For new educators, retired educators and everyone in between, there are opportunities for personal and professional growth.  

As a final encouragement to consider, DKG is about our past, our present and our future. Our founders and early members understood that bringing members together was good for the organization and because of that we grew. Presently, we have about 50,000 women who believe that membership in DKG is good for education. Our members are making a difference in the lives of women and children around the world. Active involvement at the Chapter, State and International level will secure our future so that DKG can continue to maintain our 7 purposes for key women educators in the years and hopefully decades to come. 

Holden Fund Committee

… inspiring member growth since 1977

The Holden Fund Committee has been very busy this year partially or fully funding speaker Monica Eason for the Detroit Conference; Albert Monreal Quihuis for the Phoenix Conference; and Minna Huotilainen for the European Conference.  These speakers were a great source of professional development and leadership skills for many members at one time.  Financial support was also extended to the Latin American Conference. 

Eunah Temple Holden was a very generous DKG member.  She left money in her will to start the Holden Fund.  However, only the interest and donations can be used to fund the events the committee chooses.  Everyone is aware of how interest rates have dropped resulting in fewer dollars to help support this fund.  Therefore, we are more than ever before dependent on donations.  If you can find it in your heart to donate to this very worthwhile fund, all DKG members can benefit from the events the committee sponsors.  Thank you in advance for your generosity. 

An A&H Jury Blog Worth Repeating:

 

Be sure to be included in the January 15th – February 15th Submission Period

Artists come in all categories and varieties, but one thing that unites them is a passion for their craft.  Often though, to take the bold step of sharing one's talents is sometimes not as easy as it may seem.  We are here to help! The Arts & Humanities Jury provides an easy opportunity to highlight the artistic talents and passions of our members. With a depth of artistry and cultural diversity, many members have willingly shared their talents through the submission process of the DKG Fine Arts Gallery. We encourage you to visit the DKG Fine Arts Gallery located at www.dkg.org and click on the Art Gallery Icon. With each category, you will be awed at the amazing visual, literary, musical and dramatic talents of our international membership.

The Arts and Humanities Jury has created a variety of categories specially designed to showcase your diverse talents.

• Writing - essay, short story, playwriting, poetry.
• Performance Art – dance, dramatics, filmmaking, music, original composition, oratory.
• Visual Arts: 2D – acrylic, charcoal, colored pencil, graphite, mixed media, pastel, pen & ink, printmaking, watercolor, photography (black and white or color).
• Visual Arts: 3D – basketry, ceramics, stain glass, jewelry, quilts, sculpture, textiles, woodcarvings.
• Multimedia - Blend one or more categories! Illuminate your poetry or short story with photography or 2D Art. Combine playwriting or a musical composition with a performance video.

The submission period is open NOW from January 15th - February 15th, 2024. Click on the submissions tab for the updated submission procedures, revised rubrics, informational webinar, and “Do’s and Don’ts” tips to guide you successfully through the submission process. To safeguard the personal privacy rights of individual content, a mandatory addition to the submission process is the inclusion of the Video Release and the Photography Consent forms if your artwork contains image(s) that would need consent forms. The submission procedures encourage members to submit cultural art and to submit writing in languages other than English, with an English translation. Don’t forget to peruse the Arts and Humanities Blog Icon on the website. The platform is written bimonthly to inform and spotlight our amazing artists. Jury members share tips on strengthening the quality of submissions and highlight artists who have been accepted into the Art Gallery. The Arts and Humanities blog continues to grow and provide video clips and in person interviews with artists. These media forms have been a wonderful addition to showcase the vast and culturally diverse talents of our membership. 

Don’t miss out on unlocking the artistic talent and creativity within yourself.  With each submission opportunity, the A& H Jury is excited to open our Art Gallery to the talents of our international membership. Will you be unlocking your creative talents in 2024? The true key is sharing your creative passions with others. Click now!

Marketing Templates on the Website

In today's fast-paced world, effective and efficient communication plays a crucial role in our organization’s success. As a DKG member, having access to well-crafted templates can significantly streamline your communication and marketing process. Many valuable resources to enhance Society communication and marketing for state organizations, chapters, and members can be found at  www.dkg.org.  Have you explored the various templates available on www.dkg.org and how they can benefit your chapter?

Marketing Templates:

●      Chapter Information Templates: The website provides a variety of information templates, such as brochures and rack cards. These templates serve as starting points, helping chapters draft personalized and professional correspondence more efficiently.

●      Presentation Templates: Engaging and visually appealing presentations are essential for conveying information to potential or current members. These templates feature visually appealing layouts and designs, saving time and effort in creating impactful presentations.

●      Business and Social Media Cards: The business card template can incorporate DKG's logo, colors, and visual elements to maintain a cohesive and recognizable brand identity. This helps to establish a professional and consistent image for DKG members and reinforces the organization's values and mission.

Benefits of Using Templates from www.dkg.org:

●      Time-saving: Templates serve as time-saving tools, enabling educators and professionals to focus on content rather than formatting. By providing ready-made structures, www.dkg.org's templates eliminate the need to start from scratch, allowing users to create professional documents more efficiently.

●      Consistency: Consistency in communication is vital for maintaining a professional image. The templates on www.dkg.org help ensure consistency in formatting, tone, and structure across various documents. This consistency enhances professionalism and builds trust among recipients.

●      Professionalism: The templates provided by www.dkg.org are crafted with professionalism in mind. They incorporate best practices and industry standards, enabling users to create documents that align with professional expectations. This professionalism can positively impact DKG’s reputation and credibility.

●     Customization: While templates provide a structured foundation, they can be customized to suit individual needs. Users can adapt the templates to their specific contexts, inserting personal details, modifying content, and adjusting layouts as necessary.

In the realm of communication and marketing, the templates are invaluable tools that streamline processes, enhance productivity, and ensure professionalism. By utilizing these templates, members can save time, maintain consistency, and create documents that align with DKG’s mission and vision. Visit www.dkg.org today and leverage its vast array of templates to enhance your communication and take our society to new heights.