#615 Go to Alpha Xi Delta National Convention

When Andrea and I heard that AXD National Convention this year was going to be in Chicago, we made plans to go. AXD National Convention happens every 2 years in different city each year. Chicago was probably closest it would ever be. After debating if we should do the whole convention or just sign up for parts of it, we opted for the full convention since we didn’t want to miss anything being our first convention. Convention spanned 4 days and included several banquets, educational sessions, a few sisterhood activities including an optional outing to the Cubs (ugh) game, and plenty of free time to explore the great city of Chicago.

Convention was a wonderful experience – one I wished I didn’t wait 15 years to partake in. I came home with new friends, new ideas, and a renewed sense of sisterhood.

10 things I learned from National Convention

10. There’s a lot of leeway in the blue and gold attire requirement.

I was stressing about making sure I found solid blue dress and/or skirt/blouse combination for the Philanthropy breakfast. I ended up getting a dress I didn’t love completely but was solid blue. Instead of I could have worn a blue top and a nice pair of capris. Even the Celebration of Sisterhood Banquet had variety of blue and gold… in various shades, styles, and patterns. Next time I won’t stress so much about finding the right outfit.

9. Alpha Xi Delta loves Philanthropy

We have raised over $6.5 million dollar for Autism Speaks through walks and AmaXIng Challenges. The Milwaukee Alum association even took home some awards from the Philanthropy breakfast.

8. Everyone has a story to tell.

Kindra Hall spoke about telling stories when you have a message to convey. People relate to stories. Tell a story when you need to convey a message – people are more apt to listen and remember.

7. It all comes back to you

The ceremonies, the songs, and the words you haven’t recited since your college days 15 years ago roll off your tongue like it was only yesterday.


6. You’re never too old to realize your potential and get a lifetime achievement award.

Regardless of your age (29 or 92), work hard and realize your potential. Bette was honored for her work she did through years in Physical Therapy stating during World War II. Now that's a lifetime. It was a honor to meet her and call her my sister.

5. Work hard and you will succeed

Beta Psi, my chapter, was a small chapter in my college days and barely won any National Awards. Now they are flourishing and came home with many awards. The best award was xxxx which is the 2nd highest award a chapter can get. When the National President calls out this amazing feat, you just beam with pride.

4. Shining stars are everywhere

For a $10 donation to the foundation, you could honor or celebrate a sister. For sisters at convention you got a shining star for your name badge. There was a wall of stars with sisters names on it. Every sister at convention had at least one star thanks to a generous (and amazing) sister who gave each of us a star in honor of her 19th convention.

3. There’s plenty of opportunities to realize your potential

The break out sessions were beneficial to alum and collegiate sisters alike. With a wide variety of sessions to choose from, sometimes it was hard to chose. The best part most every session was led by a sister.

2. No matter where you come from, we are all sisters

I met sisters from all over the country. Andrea and I met one on the train to Chicago and a couple more at Taste of Chicago. We picked up a few in the lobby of the hotel.

We would sit in the lobby with our new friends and talk to all hours of the night. We may have came from different places but we share the bond of sisterhood.

1. Not 4 years but for life

This is so true when you see women old enough to be your grandma or mom there enjoying their 19th, 27th, or even first convention. Sisterhood doesn't end when you walk out of the house/room/lodge for the last time as a senior. If you let it, it will continue for the rest of your life.