Paying It Forward

For over 30 years, Delta Gamma has been a significant part of my life. How did that happen? It all seems so normal and natural. As a child and teenager, I witnessed my parents' involvement in our family, our community and our church. They didn't talk about it; they were just always involved. They quietly set the example, and I became a product of my family's environment.

When I considered going through rush, as it was called then, my parents were very supportive of the idea. Of course, I eventually pledged and was initiated into Delta Gamma. Following the example I had been brought up with, I was very involved as a collegiate member and became a collegiate officer.

After graduation, I began teaching, was married and moved away from Michigan because of my husband's job. Little did I know then that we would move several times because of various job transfers. Following each move, I got in touch with the Delta Gamma alumnae in the area and became involved in the alumnae group. My husband certainly understood since we began dating when I was a pledge. He knew what it meant to me and has always been very supportive of my involvement.

After serving in a variety of positions and offices within local alumnae chapters, I had a clear understanding of what "lifetime commitment" meant and began serving the Fraternity, first on the Cabinet, then on Council and currently on the Foundation's Board of Trustees.

There have been so many service and leadership opportunities, an enhancement of a variety of skills, lots of fun adventures, travel throughout the United States and Canada, and the very best of all—truly the very best of all—so many dear and treasured friendships. I can't imagine not making every effort to help ensure Delta Gamma's future through the Charter Group. Thanks to my parents' valuable example, I learned a lesson that I continue to practice. I think the jargon is now called "paying it forward," both literally and figuratively.

— Kristine "Kris" Reed Maedel, Beta Xi-Michigan State