Tea with the Thetas of JMU

Recently, I was invited to speak at the James Madison University's Kappa Alpha Theta (Eta Rho) Chapter's "Influential Women of Virginia" Tea. I was honored to receive this invite and gladly attended the spring-time event that was shared with chapter members, alumnae, family and friends.

Having never joined a sorority myself, I had envisioned groups that were more like those in the college films of yesteryear when actually, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the purpose of the group is much more purposeful than I had thought. For this organization their purpose is that the ambition of the Fraternity shall be the attainment of highest scholarship. The social aim of the Fraternity is to exercise the widest influence for good and the moral aim of the organization is to be the standard of love. I was very impressed with the group of young ladies, to say the least.

Their mission is "Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, Kappa Alpha Theta exists to nurture each member throughout her college and alumnae experience and to offer a lifelong opportunity for social, intellectual, and moral growth as she meets the higher and broader demands of mature life." I found that this statement truly reflected in each young ladies' desire to lead a purposeful life.

For many, spring break was a trip to assist orphanages in foreign countries or other such mission work. They didn't spend their time in a selfish manner, but in a very selfless manner.


The tea itself was just a small portion of a weekend that included a benefit dinner for CASA, (their national charity alliance), a 5K race to benefit CASA and several other fun activities.

During the tea I had the opportunity to share my testimony and encourage the young ladies to further feel empowered and achieve their dreams. I truly enjoyed speaking with the young ladies and their mothers after the tea, hearing their stories of life and how they are making a difference.

Everyday, these ladies, and many other in their generation are choosing to make a difference through volunteering and service. It's moments like this tea that we can thank them, encourage them, and continue to empower their efforts. Providing support to their service is a positive reinforcement that we can all give in order to ensure a healthier and brighter tomorrow.