Founders Day Ceremonies

FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY
Today we come together to remember our Founders and to

celebrate our membership in ALPHA DELTA KAPPA. It was
through the vision, dedication, and actions of Agnes Shipman
Robertson, Marion Southall, Marie Neal, and Hattie Poppino
that the state of Missouri in 1947 issued a charter incorporating
ALPHA DELTA KAPPA, allowing it to organize chapters in
every state and around the globe. We honor our Founders for
lighting the way to recognition of outstanding women educators.
(Light 5 candles individually throughout the ceremony or have five
candles lit on the table at the start.)
The first candle symbolizes love – the love our Founders held
for learning and for our profession.
The second candle symbolizes inspiration – the inspiration
which led to the founding of ALPHA DELTA KAPPA. Our
Founders were women of purpose who never wavered in their
desire to create our organization.
The third candle symbolizes growth – the growth of ALPHA
DELTA KAPPA into an international organization; an
organization that at all levels – chapter, state, provincial, national,
regional and international - supports altruistic projects and
provides numerous scholarships.
The fourth candle symbolizes honor. Our Founders created
ALPHA DELTA KAPPA to honor outstanding women in
education and to promote professional women educators.
The fifth candle symbolizes thought – the thought and planning
that went into the creation of ALPHA DELTA KAPPA. The same
degree of thought and planning that went into the creation of
our organization continues as it grows and changes to meet the
needs of today’s women educators.
LIGHT – love, inspiration, growth, honor, thought. As our
Founders lit the way for the creation of ALPHA DELTA KAPPA,
may we light the way for its future.
44
ALPHA DELTA KAPPA FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY
Written for Founders’ Day 2002
Arizona Pi Chapter
(Opening prayer, thought or meditation)
We meet today to honor the Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa. We are celebrating the _____th
year of our sorority. On August 13, 1947, the dream of Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie
Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino became a reality. This past year has brought a lot
of changes to our world and though it is a time of uncertainty, our purposes have remained
firm and unchanged. Thus we are here today, to celebrate the visions of our Founders, and
renew a commitment to the purposes for which this organization was created.
The theme for today is a “High Country Celebration of Thanks.” We have so much to be
thankful for. Do you remember a song that you learned in elementary school that goes like
this: Over the river and through the woods? Do you remember that song? It brings back fond
memories for me. AND since we are in the woods, what better way to celebrate than to go
into the woods and see how nature can make us thankful for not only our Founders but for
each of us as well.
Sisters, grab your sweaters for we are going on a walk through the woods. This walk shall be
done in silence. Let’s use our eyes to look for squirrels, rabbits and the scenery. Let’s use our
ears to hear the birds and the wind. Let’s take a whiff of the mountain air. Let’s really listen
to our sisters as we honor our Founders.
Prayer of the Woods
Please listen ladies as this prayer, called “Prayer of the Woods,” has been used by the
Portuguese for forest preservation for the past 1,000 years.
I am the heat of your hearth on the cold winter nights, the friendly shade
screening you from the summer sun, and my fruits are refreshing draughts quenching
your thirst as you journey on.
I am the beam that holds your house, the board of your table, the bed on
which you lie, and the timber that builds your boat.
I am the handle of your hoe, the door of your homestead, the wood of
your cradle, and the shell of your coffin.
I am the bread of kindness and the flower of beauty. “Ye who pass by,
listen to my prayer: Harm me not, preserve me for bountiful living so that I can
be of service to humanity.”
Agnes Shipman Robertson
(Point to the blue spruce and say) Sisters, this is a blue spruce. Look at it a moment. I would like
to tell you why this tree reminds me of our Founder Agnes Shipman Robertson.
Have you ever gone searching for a Christmas tree? If you have, you know that when you see
a blue spruce, you have found the perfect tree. In a forest it stands out from the rest because
of its perfect conical shape and beautiful color. If you are familiar with “True Colors” you
know that if you are a “blue” you are sensitive, empathetic, loyal and enthusiastic.
Agnes was all of these things and more. She knew that as women educators we needed an
organization to help us get together personally, socially and professionally. She would love
knowing that we are together today.
The blue spruce, when it’s in a dense stand, provides thermal and hiding cover for many
forest animals. As teachers we must provide a safe heaven for our students. As sisters we
must stand together to keep the ideals of our sorority alive.
When a spruce is decorated with tinsel and lights it is a lovely sight especially for a child. It is
a promise of wonderful things to come. These lights reflect an image of Agnes who promised
us wonderful things when we became members of Alpha Delta Kappa.
Just as the blue spruce stands out from the rest so does Agnes Shipman Robertson. Today we
honor her as an inspiration to everyone demonstrating her leadership as a Founder of Alpha Delta
Kappa.
Marie Neal
Marie Neal, our second Founder, used the universe of knowledge for a better understanding of
our multi-diverse world. Speaking of diverse, let’s look at this pine tree. This happens to be a
Ponderosa Pine, but did you know that there are over 100 different species of pine trees?
The pine is always green. As you know green is nature’s favorite color, symbolic of strength.
Marie was a remarkably strong lady and invaluable to Alpha Delta Kappa. This tree too has a
high commercial value because of the quality logs it produces. Like teachers who provide a
safe heaven for students, its canopy provides shelter for wildlife.
Native Americans value this particular tree. Its sap is used to coat the inside of whistles and
flutes to improve tone. The roots are used to make a beautiful blue dye. The pitch from this
tree is used for glue. One of Marie’s wishes was for a fraternal organization that would create
a strong bond between women, an idea so very important to the founding of Alpha Delta
Kappa. Her role in the founding and management helps us to connect our world and provides
the unity to hold together this sorority called Alpha Delta Kappa.
Marion Southall
Marion Southall served as the first national vice-president and chairman of the executive board
in our early years. The quaking aspen tree shares many of her attributes. The golden color of
the leaves in fall shows warmth and a steadfastness of purpose. Marion was that kind of
person. Busy beavers love this tree, as the wood is light, soft and straight grained. Marion
Southall was a busy beaver. It is said that she very seldom missed a meeting, was very well
organized and quite creative.
The aspen is valued for its aesthetic qualities in every season. The beautiful green leaves of
summer turn to yellow, orange, red and gold during the fall. It is one of the taller trees in the
woods always searching for light. Marion would like for all of us to become beacons of light
for our students. Guiding them in the right direction.
This tree seems to sing a soft song when the wind is blowing and every time we sing “The
Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa” we should think of Marion Southall. You see her children
composed this song.
Aspen is one of the favorite woods for lumberjacks. When you burn aspen it crackles, bums
clean and fast. This aspen, along with all of us, should salute Marion and help us to
remember, “its radiant glow will ere bestow a light to all the lands.”
Hattie Poppino
To honor our last Founder, Hattie Poppino, I’d like you to observe the white birch tree. This
tree is familiar because of its weeping, slender twigs making a mountain of foliage supported
by its beautiful white bark trunk. White is symbolic of purity, honor and truth. Hattie, like the
rest of our Founders, possessed these qualities.
This tree never reaches commercial size but is great for firewood and makes great “hard and
heavy” fence posts. Livestock can browse on it; its buds, seeds and sap are eaten by birds.
Therefore its size does not take away from its importance. The last name we hear when we
speak of our Founders is Hattie Poppino, but being last does not take away from her
importance.
Hattie was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. Her
wish was to have effective communication between us, the need for never-ending
communication lights the path of our sorority.
Again some of the Native American tribes used the bark of this tree to build their canoes for
their water journeys. Like them, Hattie started us on an incredible journey when we were
initiated into Alpha Delta Kappa. We hope the journey never ends. Thank you Hattie Poppino.
Oak
This morning we talked a little about an apple tree being symbolic of teachers. That is true,
but another tree reminds me more of our sorority. Unfortunately, I don’t have one to show
you, as you would have to walk about a mile. That tree is the mighty oak!
It begins life from a tiny acorn, which grows in a big shallow cup. Our sorority was tiny at its
inception. When it matures it is a venerable giant of the forest. Our sorority has grown so that
we not only have chapters in every state of the union, but around the world. When you get a
chance look closely at the oak tree. Each leaf comes out separately on the branch. The leaves
are individual but a part of something big. As an Alpha Delta Kappa member, we can keep
our individuality and still remain a part of the group.
If there is a huge windstorm, the oak will remain standing while others blow down. This should
be a lesson to teachers that just as the oak bends to keep from being blow down, we as teachers
must be flexible. We must change with the times to keep our dear sorority up to date and to meet
the needs of all members.
Every fall the leaves change to red and even purple. These colors are symbolic of strength,
nobility of character and love. Let us remember these qualities as we strive to accomplish our
duties in Alpha Delta Kappa.
Just as Johnny Tremain and the Sons of Liberty chose the oak to represent them, I chose the
oak to represent our sorority. Its strength, beauty and endurance will remain a silent tribute to
our Founders and each sister of Alpha Delta Kappa.
(Closing prayer, thought or meditation)
Today we donated an apple tree as a symbol of life and service to our sorority. As this tree
grows let is symbolize our Founders: Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall
and Hattie Poppino. Let this tree benefit those who will see it.
CREATING THE HEART OF TOMORROW
Five heart-shaped candle holders are placed on a table. The heart-shaped candle holders are
labeled with the following letters: H-E-A-R-T. A candle is placed in each candle holder. As
each portion of the ceremony is read, a candle is lit.
H is for HERITAGE
We light the first candle for HERITAGE.

Although we focus on the future in creating the heart of tomorrow, the past provides
the continued pulse.
Sixty-four years ago, four visionary women perceived a need to recognize and support
the professional efforts of outstanding women educators. The collaborative effort of Marie Neal,
Agnes Shipman Roberts, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino created Alpha Delta Kappa, which
was incorporated in the State of Missouri in 1947.
The realization that such an organization was needed was actually born a quarter of a
century earlier when Marie Neal sensed that women educators would benefit from being drawn
together for the purpose of enhancing professional attitudes and attributes. Agnes Shipman
Robertson also perceived the lack of a catalyst in promoting close professional ties among women
educators.
The effort of our Founders produced a pulse that continues to beat. We honor our
Founders as we respond to that beat by being sensitive to the needs of others. Creating the heart
of tomorrow requires us to be especially responsive to the needs of children.
E is for EXCELLENCE
We light the second candle for EXCELLENCE.

We help create the heart of tomorrow through excellence in education.
The qualifications for membership in AK are characteristic of excellence. We are

accredited educators with enriched abilities and outstanding personal qualifications. We have
attained a high degree of acceptance in professional and community relationships. When we
were considered for membership, we were highly recommended by other educators.
Alpha Delta Kappa recognizes worthy educators by awarding scholarships and grants on
the basis of demonstrated excellence. Conferences and conventions feature a wealth of
experiences designed to increase our skills. Chapter meetings, as well as workshops and training
sessions, help us grow in excellence. Publications such as the Columns and KAPPAN allow us
to keep informed of ongoing developments with regard to AK.
Children are the beneficiaries of our commitment to educational excellence. The heart of
tomorrow is touched by our quest for excellence. We help create the heart of tomorrow as we
skillfully and compassionately work with children.
A is for ALTRUISM
We light the third candle for ALTRUISM.

Altruism is truly the heart of our organization and a powerful tool in creating the heart of
tomorrow as we give to meet social, emotional, physical, medical and financial needs.
We create the heart of tomorrow through giving to worthwhile community-based

altruistic projects. Alpha Delta Kappa has more than 38,000 members with more than 1,400
chapters in 50 states as well as Puerto Rico, Australia, Canada, Jamaica and Mexico. In just the
last two years, AK members have given over 12 million dollars in money and other gifts, plus
over 2.2 million dollars in scholarships. Over 2.2 million hours of volunteer service by ADK
members have been given to our communities. Internationally, we support St. Jude Children’s
Research Hospital and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. We also provide scholarships and grants.
Locally, our chapters support the following community-based organizations and projects:
 Channel One
 Christmas Anonymous
 Crisis Nursery
 Dorothy Day House
 Gift of Life Transplant House
 Habitat for Humanity
 Interfaith Hospitality Network
 Join the Journey: 10 Mile Cancer Walk
 PossAbilities
 Meals on Wheels
 Ronald McDonald House
 Rochester Public School Libraries
 Running Start
 Salvation Army
 Women’s Shelter
We join other AK members in collectively channeling our time, talent, and treasure for
the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession, and the world. Clearly, the hearts of
tomorrow are touched by our generosity.
R is for RECOGNITION
We light the fourth candle for RECOGNITION.

The heart of tomorrow is strengthened by recognizing group, as well as individual,
achievements.
Alpha Delta Kappa provides a variety of awards designed to recognize the collective
success of chapters. The Positive Net Growth Award, the Seven-Pearl Chapter Award, and the
Annual Program Award are examples of the recognition available to our chapters. When we file
our reports in a timely manner, increase our membership and fulfill other requirements, our
success is noticed and recognized.
Outstanding women educators are recognized by AK through the Excellence in
Education Award. Additionally, the Women of Distinction award is designed to recognize
worthy women who have distinguished themselves in the fields of education, humanities,
sciences or arts on a national or international level. Previous winners include Shirley Temple
Black, Pearl Buck, Indira Gandhi, Lady Bird Johnson, Margaret Mead, Mother Teresa, and
Barbara Bush. Many other awards indicative of educational excellence are also recognized by
AK.
Alpha Delta Kappa abounds with opportunities for recognizing commitment to

educational excellence as well as acknowledging personal and professional growth. Although we
appreciate recognition, we touch the heart of tomorrow through our commitment to serve. The
heart of tomorrow is shaped by those who continually give of themselves with or without
recognition.
T is for TEACHING
We light the fifth candle for TEACHING.

We create the heart of tomorrow through teaching.
We have rich opportunities to touch the heart of tomorrow through teaching. Our reward
comes when we observe children growing in character and wisdom. We know that something as
simple as a smile or a nod can touch a child’s heart. One of our Founders, Marie Neal, said:
If there is such a thing as a philosophy of life, I would recommend to anyone to keep

busy with worthwhile projects, look for the good in people, have a genuine love in your
heart for all humanity, be able to see another’s point of view, and never get so
involved with your own ideas that you are not able to see the viewpoint of the youth of
America.”
Our professional lives have been devoted to working with children. We treasure the time
we spend with children. We know the joy that comes from teaching. We create in the hearts of
children receptiveness to worthwhile pursuits. Our experience has taught us that the heart of
tomorrow is shaped by what we do today.
YOU MIGHT ONLY BE ONE TEACHER IN WORLD, BUT YOU MIGHT BE THE
WORLD TO A CHILD.
REACH OUT AND TOUCH A CHILD’S HEART.
— by Sandra Walker, Minnesota Chi Chapter

Founders’ Day Ceremony
Designing a Tomorrow Quilt
By Jackie Farmer
October 2005
Prepare a piece of poster board or other background with the quilt outline and whatever
prompts you need to put the “quilt pieces” into the correct spots. You may want to use Velcro,
or simply tape them into place.
READER 1:
Years ago at the state convention in Waco, Jackie, in her welcoming speech as Convention Co-
Chairman, compared Alpha Delta Kappa to a well-loved quilt. We are going to recreate that
Alpha Delta Kappa quilt today.
A quilt is a creation of the hand, and of the heart. They are long-term investments. Many hours
go into the design, the actual crafting in intricate steps, and finally the use of a quilt. Although
they are found in many cultures, there is something decidedly Americana about a quilt. Well
kept, a quilt can last for generations. How many of you can’t help thinking of your own family
history when you see a quilt draped across a bed or over the back of an old rocking chair.
They bring to mind moments of comfort, family and heritage. Quilts are timeless. They are a
legacy passed from one generation to another.
READER 2:
Our Founders also created Alpha Delta Kappa with their hands and hearts. Hoping that our
sorority would become a long-term investment, they spent hours designing, crafting and finally
seeing Alpha Delta Kappa in operation. Intricate steps were taken to develop an organization
that would be timeless. To create a group of like-minded women that would be comfort to one
another. Agnes, Hattie, Marion and Marie were women with amazing foresight who saw a
legacy in quilting the beginnings of Alpha Delta Kappa. They are our corner squares.
(Place corner squares on poster board or background)
READER 3:
Each chapter is a square of color and pattern in our Alpha Delta Kappa quilt. Our Founders
knew that the strength of the sorority is dependent in the close-knit dedication of the local
chapter. These are the sisters that live and work together, who often have the same students,
who know the same families, who share the same triumphs and tragedies. Each chapter is as
distinct and individual as its members, yet combined create a well-working organization. The
chapter is where the “work” of Alpha Delta Kappa takes place, where tomorrow’s leaders are
trained. The shared-experiences of the local chapters create the strength and the heart of the
sorority.
(Place the center portion of the logo into position.)
READER 4:
The chapter squares combined make the rows of our quilt. Our Founders knew that in order to
create a cohesive sisterhood, there needed to be involved in activities beyond the chapter level.
So we join with other sisters in other chapters to create our Districts. In districts, the influence
and effectiveness of Alpha Delta Kappa is multiplied and the sisterhood expands and
strengthens.
When the rows of Districts are sewn together, the recognizable shape of the quilt is finally seen.
That is our state organization. Texas Alpha Delta Kappa would be nothing without each mem-
ber, in each chapter, in each District. The parts become a whole and sisterhood spreads like
this warm comfortable quilt across a state as vast and intricate as the pieces of our Alpha Delta
Kappa quilt. Yet, different as we all are, we become one; one in purpose, one in vision and
one in design.
(Place the side pieces into position.)
READER 5:
Finally, the boarder of our Alpha Delta Kappa Quilt is our International organization. With
guidelines and procedures, communication and support, we are held together like the boarder
holds and frames our quilt. The boarder of the quilt finishes the edges, giving it strength and
stability, holding us all together.
(Place the boarder pieces around outside of quilt.)
Our Alpha Delta Kappa quilt started with four small squares, the idea and inspiration for the
rest of our creation, and slowly we worked outward to form something of beauty, comfort and
strength. It is every quilt maker’s dream that her labor of hands and heart might someday be
passed down to the younger generation. That was the dream of Agnes, Marie, Marion and
Hattie also. They dreamed that the creation of Alpha Delta Kappa become an organization
strong and beautiful enough to be passed down to the next generation. We are that generation,
and it is our charge to continue Designing Tomorrow, as we craft Texas Alpha Delta Kappa
into a gift worth giving. What will the Alpha Delta Kappa quilt that we passed down look like?
READER 6: (Chaplain if possible)

Let us pray.
Heavenly Creator,
We thank you today that the four women that founded our sorority were women of strength of
purpose and foresight. We are thankful for their hard work and dedication to the organization
of Alpha Delta Kappa, which gives us a legacy as beautiful and comfortable as an old quilt.
We accept the gift that they passed down to us and we renew our pledge today to continue
Designing Tomorrow by Crafting the Gifts of Alpha Delta Kappa into a sorority worth leaving
to the next generation. Bless the work of our hands and our hearts.
Amen.
Alpha Delta Kappa
By 2002-2004 Puerto Rico State President Elba Estrella
Since 1956, with the expansion of sororities, myriad educators in and outside the United States
have had their opportunity to work as recognized excellent educators.
During this month of October 2003, we pay tribute to Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie
Poppino, Marion Southall and Marie Neal. I wish to tender my appreciation to those
Founders who have departed, and to those who today continue accomplishing the dreams of
those magnificent women of 1947. It is in the month of October, a time to recall our history,
to celebrate our present day and to reflect on our sorority’s future. It is a future that has given
us the opportunity to continue their dream to pay tribute to the labor of a noble trade.
To undertake their mission, they possessed the most beautiful emotion, love; a love for their
profession and for their fellow educator, and an endeavor to endow with distinction educators
of excellence.
They professed the need, not only to contribute with an organization of high moral values for
educators, but that, in addition, one that is recognized and respected by government leaders
and the society in general, as representative of a profession that has had great impact on
human formation. They did not waver; they conquered countless obstacles.
Today, we benefit from their courage and their noble efforts. We have to continue
strengthening our sorority. The organization’s growth and development is dependent on our
enthusiasm and all its members’ sincere collaboration.
These ladies whom we honor today, carried out their part and continued to toil on behalf of
our sorority. I tender my most sincere appreciation for serving as models to the educators we
have invited into our circle of excellence.
During this biennium, we initiated 54 neophytes and reinstated 13 young sorority members.
We also established a new Alpha Kappa Chapter at the University College of San Juan in San
Juan, Puerto Rico. All a sign that the dreams of Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie Poppino,
Marion Southall and Marie Neal still live in our hearts. Now it is our young educators’ task
to continue strengthening our sorority.
In Puerto Rico, and probably internationally, we are mostly retired educators, making it
difficult to identify which teachers have the desirable qualities to become part of our
organization.
Therefore, my fellow young sorority sisters, teachers, working professors, you have the
initiative. Do not allow the Founders’ dream be just that . . . a dream.
MENSAJE DE LA PRESIDENTA ESTATAL DE PUERTO RICO
EN LA CELEBRACION DEL HOMENAJE
A NUESTRAS FUNDADORAS
Desde el año 1956 con la expansión de la Sororidad, son miles las educadoras en y fuera de
Estados Unidos las que han tenido la oportunidad de que su labor como educadoras excelentes
haya sido reconocida.
En este mes de octubre de 2003, le rendimos homenaje a Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie
Poppino, Marion Southall y Marie Neal. Deseo extender mi gratitud a esas fundadoras que se
han marchado, y a las que hoy continúan realizando el sueño de aquellas maravillosas mujeres
del año 1947. Es precisamente el mes de octubre la época de recordar nuestra historia, de
celebrar el presente y reflexionar sobre el futuro de nuestra sororidad. Un futuro nos dio la
oportunidad de continuar el sueño de aquellas que un día se dedicaron a enaltecer la noble
labor de esta profesión.
Para emprender su obra ellas poseían el sentimiento más hermoso, el Amor. Amor por su
profesión y por la c1ase magisterial. Empeño de dar un merecido reconocimiento a
educadoras excelentes.
Ellas percibieron la necesidad, de no solamente ofrecer a la clase magisterial una organización

de altos valores éticos, sino que ademas fuera reconocida y respetada por los líderes
gubernamentales y la sociedad en general, como la profesión de más impacto en la formación
del ser humano. No se amedrentaron . . . vencieron innumerables obstáculos.
Hoy, nosotras disfrutamos la valentia y el esfuerzo abnegado en ellas. Tenemos que continuar
fortaleciendo nuestra sororidad. El desarrollo y crecimiento de la organización depende del
entusiasmo y sincera cooperación de todos sus miembros.
Estas damas a quien también homenajeamos hoy, hicieron su parte y continúan laborando en
beneficio de la sororidad. Les extiendo mi sincera gratitud por servir de ejemplo a las
educadoras que hemos invitado a nuestro círculo de excelencia.
En este bienio hemos iniciado 54 neófitas y reinstalado 13 sororitas. Instalamos un nuevo

Capítulo Alpha Kappa en el Colegio Universitario de San Juan. Indicación que el sueño de
Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie Poppino, Marion Southall y Marie Neal aún está latente en
nuestros corazones. Corresponde ahora alas educadoras jóvenes continuar la tarea de
fortalecer nuestra sororidad.
En Puerto Rico y probablemente intemacionalmente somos muchas las educadoras retiradas.
A nosotras se nos hace dificil observar quiénes poseen las cualidades necesarias para ser parte
de esta organización.
Por lo tanto, mis queridas sororitas jóvenes, maestras, profesoras activas, ustedes tienen la
iniciativa. No dejen que el sueño de las Fundadoras del año 1947 sea precisamente eso . . .
un sueño.
ALPHA DELTA KAPPA les ha abierto las puertas . . . aprovechen la oportunidad . . . vuelen
alto . . . conviértanse en líderes . . . salgan en busca de la EXCELENCIA.
Elba Estrella
La presidenta terminó su mensaje con un poema que precisamente hace un Hamado alas
profesoras jóvenes:
We are the builders, who built today,

But someone before us has paved the way.
Someone has dreamed and someone has prayed
And through their vision our hearthstones were laid.
We also are dreamers today, who dream

But someone tomorrow must cross the stream.
Someone must fashion from our mind’s view
The future building that we would do.
Someone must master because we believe

Someone will do what we dream to achieve.
- Maryellis Wheaton, 1987, Washington Eta Chapter

The Eighth Pearl
By Laureen Dunn
Louisiana Beta Eta Chapter
We are here tonight to recognize four remarkable and outstanding

women- Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie
Poppino. We honor them for their vision of an organization that would recognize
and support teachers in their individual pursuits of personal and professional
excellence. We are thankful to them for creating an organization where women
can find strength and inspiration not just from other “teachers,” but from sisters
who share their same desire for excellence. These women understood that
when the strength and talents of individuals are organized and channeled, great
strides can be made in the lives of that individual and the achievements of the
organization. We understand that the diligence with which they carried out their
endeavor- tirelessly and with vigilance was an extension of their faith.
It is because of their insight, their standards, and their unceasing efforts,
that we are members of an organization which promotes the highest standards of
excellence in education thereby, having a lasting effect on children throughout
the world and throughout generations. It is because of their nurturing spirits, a
desire to serve others, and their courage that they were able to create an
organization that has withstood the test of time for almost 60 years- 60 years of
excellence in education and altruism… 60 years that have been characterized by
some, as marking the beginning of more self-serving and self-centered
philosophy. However, these women saw the hope and potential of each
generation . They saw the greatness of all generations if each is exposed to
even one teacher whose unwavering efforts are to impart knowledge and values
to those in her care.
For a moment I would like to share with you some anecdotes about Agnes
Shipman Robertson. She, with Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino,
had an idea- an idea born of the need of the teaching profession to have an
organization that would support women educators in their desire to pursue
excellence in their field. The four of them were in the work together. Their
strengths and individual talents were perfect complements of each other and
their roles in the creation of Alpha Delta Kappa seem to fit together so perfectly
as if bearing the fingerprint of some divine plan. There they had a dream and a
desire. They had an idea and it was worthy enough for the sacrifice. In Agnes’
words, “I was scared… but when one wishes to do something and really thinks it
is important, it can be done.” According to a friend,
“Agnes was 24 hours a day, 8 days a week,
Alpha Delta Kappa. Agnes was the promoter.
She did the traveling, carrying the initiation
materials in the trunk of her car. She would travel
from state to state, setting up 3 chapters, then
leaving a field representative for further support
and guidance. Agnes always had visions. Every
night she would come up with something new.
She would come back from trips loaded with ideas.
She would pass the ideas onto staff for implementation
so she could go and do other things. She was a
great thinker as she drove. She thought of ways to
work things, ways to grow.”
As I read these comments from her friends, I could not help but recognize
these same characteristics among the sisters in my own chapter as well as
friends in other chapters. I thought it interesting how our sisters, as did the
Founders, bring their strengths and talents to this sisterhood, appearing to be
perfect compliments of each other, in order to bring to pass a stronger
organization dedicated to this same vision- excellence in education. As I
thought about the wisdom, knowledge, and emotional support shared among the
sisters in my chapter, I began to understand how the different strengths and
talents of these four women, resulted in the successful creation of this sorority.
Bear with me for a moment while I shed light on the reality of great
endeavors such as this. Historically, and certainly we can see this pattern in our
own lives, great efforts to do good, do not go without their opposition. There
must have been huge stumbling blocks and disappointments along the way.
There must have been times when the light at the end of the tunnel seemed faint,
at times an illusion. There must have been times at the end of the day, when
they asked, “What in the world were we thinking- to have started such an
endeavor!” And yet, together, united in their purpose, they provided each other
with the strength and the will to continue in their pursuit. I suggest to you this
evening that neither vision nor purpose was the true impetus behind
the successful creation of Alpha Delta Kappa, but the love and emotional
support these women gave to each other. We all have had ideas, small or grand,
we have had a vision of something to be achieved, created, or obtained. We
know that any worthy endeavor is not realized without the encouragement and
support of one or many who grasp the vision as we do. We know that trials met
in the path of one’s life are more easily born when there are others to share the
burden. I suggest this to you – then as today, the strength in this organization is
the result of sisters giving love and service to each other, bearing one another’s
burdens, lending help and comfort as needed.
Examples:
We are familiar with the 7 pearls of Achievement, but there is another
pearl- the 8th pearl. Without having achieved this pearl, the dream of these
women would have never been realized. This pearl starts as a tiny grain of
sand… and as sister serves and supports sister, it grows into the most coveted of
all the pearls- love and desire to serve. It is the eighth pearl that provided the
strength for the Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa to endure the difficult times. It is
the eighth pearl that strengthens and binds the sisters of each chapter. It is the
eighth pearl that bonds chapter to chapter, district to district, region to region and
sisters around the world.
There are strands of pearls hanging on the centerpiece of each table.
At this time, we would like each of you to take one…. These seven pearls
represent all the virtues, talents, and strengths possessed by each of these
women- courage, commitment, faith, vision, selflessness, leadership, tenacity. It
is the eighth pearl we want you to add to these seven. It is the eighth pearl that
we want you to remember. There will be sisters around to help you. (Pause to
let them add the pearl) Sisters of Alpha Delta Kappa, It is the pearl of love and
service that ensured the realization of the vision of our Founders. It is the pearl
of love and service that was the strength of Alpha Delta Kappa then and the
strength of Alpha Delta Kappa today.
I have a confession to make. Prior to this Founders’ Day , I had read about these
women and listened carefully to each Founders’ Day Celebration, however, I had
never really given thought to the determination and self less efforts required to
successfully create a National Organization. I hadn’t given thought to the time in
history that this was taking place: post-WWII . I thought of my mother who was
their contemporary and the strength and determination she possessed. I thought
of how the hardship of the Great Depression and then WWII had honed these
women into strong, determined, selfless women. I thought of how they were
born to that time in history for a purpose as each generation is - born to prepare
a better way for the next. To see the need of an organization that would bind
women educators together creating an effective force and a standard of
excellence in education was truly visionary, for in no other time in history have
youth been more subjected to more paths in life that would lead them away from
the desire to gain truth and knowledge. The profession of teaching has always
included opportunities to be play many roles. But at no other time has it been so
necessary to teach moral and social values as well as core subjects-… to teach
and nurture with the love a parent because some of our children may not
experience this love, or because there are so many opportunities to make poor
choices that children need even more guidance.
Just as the Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa, my mother, and some of your
mothers were born at a time for a specific purpose, so we have been born in this
time to be the teachers needed to teach this generation of children. The
challenge is greater because the opposition to gaining truth and knowledge is
greater. No other time in history has there been more of a need for strong,
determined, women of excellence in education. And so in no other time in history
have women needed the educational and emotional support found in the sister
hood we call Alpha Delta Kappa.
The End
EXCELLENCE IN ACTION
LEADER: Excellence in Action is the theme of the 2009-2011 biennium chosen by our
International President, Jane Miller. The goal of educators has changed little in the last
62 years, when Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie
Poppino realized that women educators were providing Excellence in Action, but were
rarely recognized for their accomplishments. They could not ‘network’ with other
professionals, (the internet was restricted to the local hair salon, and the teachers’ lounge
was restricted to anything but running dittos on a hand crank machine). It may be hard to
understand in this age of instant communication, how difficult it was for educators to
share their ideas, to realize their potential, and to promote the ideals of education outside
their own classroom.
Finally in 1947, after 25 years in the planning, the founders of Alpha Delta Kappa
took Action to achieve Excellence. Together they established an organization which has
spread around the world. It has grown from a small group of ladies gathered together to
share teaching strategies, to a world-wide organization providing untold benefits to
children and educators, not to mention the numerous recipients of altruistic endeavors
undertaken by ADK members.
READER 1: Agnes Shipman Robertson, the first Grand President of Alpha Delta Kappa,
was the visionary. She was a music teacher and an assistant principal, and later on,
worked for an educational supply company. She traveled around the country with her
ADK materials in the trunk of her car, meeting teachers in all corners of the USA and
installing chapters as she went. Her friend said she was ‘feisty, charming, gracious, and
would not take NO for an answer’.
READER 2: Marie Neal, whose field was high school history and economics, was the
first Executive Secretary-Treasurer of Alpha Delta Kappa. She met with teachers during
her travels with her husband, who worked closely with the public schools. Her
management skills forged the beginnings of our sorority.
READER 3: Marion Southall was the first Vice President and head of the Executive
Board of Alpha Delta Kappa. Marion’s family was also very involved in the sorority.
Her husband, an attorney, acted as general counsel to ADK, and her children, Carolyn
and Richard, composed our song, “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.”
READER 4: Hattie Poppino was a teacher and school librarian for many years in
Kansas. She was a member of the first Executive Board of Alpha Delta Kappa, and her
classroom experience was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of our
sorority.
LEADER: The development of Alpha Delta Kappa could be compared to the designing
of a quilt. Both are long-term investments. Many hours must go into the design to
ensure the effectiveness and stability. Designing a sorority, like a quilt, requires a
foundation. (Place a large background on a stand – a tag board of blue or similar color
will work)
READER 1: The cornerstones of our sorority are our 4 founders, Agnes Shipman
Roberson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino.
(Place 4 stars with names of founders - one in each corner of the “quilt” secured with
Velcro or tape).
READER 2: A sorority, like a quilt, requires a theme. In Arizona, our theme is REACH
FOR THE STARS, where each member is asked to strive for Excellence in Actions.
(Place a replica of our theme in the center of the quilt.)
READER 3: A sorority and a quilt require many pieces. Each part fits together in the
design to promote the effectiveness and stability of the whole. Every member adds an
important piece. Every chapter is an integral part of the whole.
(Members come up and place _28__ stars around the quilt, one for each chapter Arizona)
READER 4: A quilt and a sorority require a protective border. Our Southwest District
and International organization provide the stability to hold us together. Without them,
our pieces would tear and drift apart. Our Founders knew the importance of reaching out
to sisters from other communities, providing the support necessary to grow and
strengthen.
(Place a border around edges decorated with Southwest and International theme symbols)
LEADER: Join with me today in honoring the foresight of our Founders. Let us
remember the hard work and dedication of Agnes, Marie, Marion and Hattie; and strive
to live up to their hope for the future of Alpha Delta Kappa. May we all strive for
EXCELLENCE in every ACTION and remember to REACH FOR THE STARS.
Please join in singing THE LAMP OF ALPHA DELTA KAPPA.
Submitted by Margaret Lutz, Membership Chairman

Arizona Alpha Zeta
With recognition for ideas from Delaware President, Peggy Keay
And Jackie Farmer of Texas, “Designing a Tomorrow Quilt”
Hold the Flame High
By Paula Raeke
October, 2002
Using the flame, we “Light the Way” for Alpha Delta Kappa and pay tribute to our Founders,
Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino.
What makes a flame burn? There are three ingredients that must all be present for a flame: a
spark, some fuel, and of course, oxygen.
As I light this lamp of learning (or big candle) you’ll notice the three—
First, the spark comes from the match (or lighter).
A spark is a start or beginning. There are other types of sparks in our life. Sparks come as
motivation or a nudge in the right direction. Perhaps someone gave you a spark at an inservice
recently. Or you received a brainstorm from convention or conference this summer for renewal
of your chapter.
Our Founders put this spark of enthusiasm to work when they founded our sorority in 1947.
From humble beginnings this flame of honor and recognition for outstanding women educators
has spread like a wildfire through the world these past 55 years.
After the spark, for the flame to flourish and burn there must be a fuel to feed the fire. The fuel
in this lamp is oil. (The fuel in this candle is wax.) It will burn out in a few hours, simply
because the wax or fuel will go away.
Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino knew that our
sorority needed a type of fuel to keep glowing. Over the years membership and renewal has
been the fuel to revitalize our sorority. Most chapters have been ignited with new members
every year. Adding this kind of fuel will keep the flame burning in Alpha Delta Kappa. Closely
examine our purpose and goals. Make them the fuel to keep your chapter flame burning
brightly by adding new members yearly.
No matter how many matches you strike, or how many candles or oil lamps you light, the
flame will not burn without oxygen. The more oxygen fed to the flame, the brighter it burns.
When deprived of this life the flame goes out.
Our Founders understood that our sorority needed new breath. They traveled to many states
those first few years establishing new chapters and encouraging membership development in
other chapters.
By 1953 Texas had two new chapters Alpha in Ft. Worth, and Beta in Dallas. Of course that
was the breath of life for Alpha Delta Kappa in Texas. Since that year there have been 157
chapters established during nearly 50 years. The oxygen has gone out of 46 chapters, I’m sad
to say. For some reason life breath of those chapters completely faded over time.
Most of their members revitalized by transferring to other chapters. Thank goodness, we’ve
kept our resilience. That’s what our Founders would tell us today: Keep those ideals high,
recruit younger women to breathe life into your chapter, fan the flame of service in the name of
altruism often, and promote world peace.
Scientists have proven that all three things must be thee for a fire: a spark, the fuel and oxygen.
Withholding one item will cause the flame to perish. Symbolically, we know our flame of
Alpha Delta Kappa will never go out.
Our Founders instilled in us the things for keeping the flame of Alpha Delta Kappa alive:
Spark: motivation
Fuel: membership development
Oxygen: that breath of renewal to our spirit to keep our purpose and goals well-formed in our
minds.
We salute our Founders by lighting a candle for each one today.

Marie Neal
Marion Southall
Hattie Poppino
(After all are lighted from the big candle, then hold the candles up at shoulder height toward the
lamp of learning.)
In this new biennium, let us recommit our pledge of service in the name of Alpha Delta Kappa
as we HOLD THE FLAMES HIGH In honor and recognition of our sisters and Founders.
[Use an oil lamp or that lamp of learning that Melinda gave us. Also a pillar candle could be
used in the center of the table. The four other candles lighted later can sit on the outside of the
circle or in a straight line at the back. Be creative with the cloth and flowers, ribbons, etc.]
Founders’ Day 2011
Today we remember our Founders and celebrate our membership in Alpha Delta Kappa. It
was through the vision, dedication and actions of Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal,
Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino that Alpha Delta Kappa was first chartered allowing it
to organize chapters in all 50 states as well as around the globe. By the leadership of these
women, we came together and have learned to adapt our own abilities to benefit our chapters,
districts, states, regions and nations.
Agnes noticed that women educators lacked a way to gather together and promote
their profession. This is where Alpha Delta Kappa began. Even back at the beginning,
“networking” was taking place and here we thought that was a 21st century concept. The
founders worked to promote commitment to excellence in education as well as professional and
personal growth.
Now it’s time to put you work. On these cards are events in the history of Alpha Delta Kappa
as well as world events. I’m going to pass these out and see if you can put them in order,
timeline style. (Put events in order and make corrections and comments about each as needed)
So as the world has changed you can see Alpha Delta Kappa has made changes along the way-
adapting to the times, technology and educational issues.
Hopefully this helps you understand some of the events throughout our Alpha Delta Kappa
history and get you curious about others. Ask long time members or go to the Alpha Delta
Kappa website to learn even more. We have a rich heritage and look forward to making
connections for the future. We honor our founders and look forward to what is to come.
Let us stand and sing “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.”
Events for timeline (omit dates) Use these or put in any that are relevant for your audience:
World War II ends 1945
Alpha Delta Kappa issued a charter by the state of Missouri 1947
Illinois ADK chartered 1950
“Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa” written/copyrighted 1951
Korean War ends 1953
Upsilon Chapter chartered 1954
First National ADK Convention 1955 Chicago

First International ADK Convention 1959 Miami
International Teacher Education Scholarships Established/Awarded 1963
JFK assassinated 1963
Headquarters constructed in Kansas City, MO 1965
Beta Eta Chapter chartered 1971
Sears Tower Constructed 1974
ADK Week Established 1975
St Jude’s Hospital-first International Altruistic Project 1981
Bears win the Super Bowl 1986
Agnes Shipman Robertson died 1987
ADK Month established 1991

First and only International Convention held outside the USA in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
1993
ADK celebrated its 50th anniversary 1997
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation became an International Altruistic project 1997
ADK web site went online 1997
Handshake/password made optional 2000
World Trade Center Falls 2001
Project S.A.V.E. drive to establish an ADK school in Viet Nam began 2009
Offices of corresponding secretary, historian and chaplain became optional at the international
convention in Chicago 2011
Submitted by
Jan Page, Illinois Upsilon
SHARE THE GIFTS
Nancy Finlayson, Michigan Phi Chapter
(Setting: Podium to side of stage. Single chair in center of stage.)
(Parts: Leader, Pledge, Seven Gift Sisters)
(Props: Seven beautifully wrapped presents labeled with the following tags:
Educational Excellence, Participation and Leadership, World Understanding, Altruism,
Fellowship, Personal/Professional Growth and Leadership Skills. One chocolate bar for
each member present)
LEADER: (in a serious but welcoming voice) Welcome. This afternoon we are gathered for
our annual Alpha Delta Kappa Founders’ Day Ceremony and new member initiation. Will our
Alpha Delta Kappa pledge please come forward? (Pledge nervously comes up to podium)
(Reassuringly) Now, Pledge, there is nothing to be nervous about. Would you please tell us
who you are?
PLEDGE: (very enthusiastically) I am an outstanding, extremely-eager-to-please, overly

enthusiastic, young educator with a great deal of energy and I (pause—with great pride) am an
Alpha Delta Kappa pledge.
L: We are so happy that you have chosen to join our beloved sorority. Please be seated.
(Pledge sits in chair center stage). Before we begin, however, I have one question for you.
P: (Jumping up, raising hand, very excitedly, in a loud and very clear voice) 1947!
L: (flustered) Well, yes, Pledge. You are right. 1947 is the year that our wonderful sorority
was organized. However, that was not my question…
P: (interrupting) Kansas City, Missouri!
L: (with a sigh) Yes, Pledge. You are right again. Kansas City, Missouri, was where our
historic sorority was founded. But my question…
P: (with great deliberation) Agnes, Hattie, Marion and Marie.

L: (becoming a little angry) Well, Pledge, you certainly have done your homework. Yes,
Agnes Shipman Robertson, Hattie Poppino, Marion Southall, and Marie Neal were the fore-
sighted Founders of our international sorority. But, all I wanted to know…
P: (enthusiasm continues undaunted) “(name of current International President)”!
L: (almost to the breaking point) Yes, yes, yes. _______________________. Of course,

everyone knows that she is the new International President of Alpha Delta Kappa who was
recently elected at the International Convention in ___________________. But before we
start, I just wanted to ask…
P: (Jumps up and shouts) Olive green and golden yellow!
L: (with straining patience) Most-welcome Pledge. WOULD YOU PLEASE SIT DOWN?
ALL I WANTED TO ASK YOU WAS WHETHER YOU WERE COMFORTABLE OR
NOT! (Pledge sits quickly and nods her head ‘yes’ sheepishly) Now, may we continue?
(Pledge hangs her head) This afternoon your Alpha Delta Kappa sisters would like to present
you with some special gifts.
P: (Jumps up again) I LOVE gifts! (A glare from the Leader makes her sit down again)
L: Your gifts, Pledge, cannot be bought in any store. These are gifts that you will receive as
you become more deeply involved with Alpha Delta Kappa and its workings. Your first gift…
(Each Gift Giver enters in turn and brings a beautifully wrapped package to present to the
Pledge)
GIFT 1: I bring you the Gift of Educational Excellence. (hands gift to Pledge)
L: You can enjoy the benefits of Educational Excellence through the many scholarships
offered from chapter to International level.
GIFT 2: I bring you the Gift of Participation and Leadership.
L: As a member of Alpha Delta Kappa you will have the opportunity to participate in our
many activities at the chapter, S/P/N and International level as well as hold leadership
positions.
GIFT 3: I bring you the Gift of World Understanding.
L: Your membership in Alpha Delta Kappa will allow you to become acquainted with sisters
of various cultures, races and ethnic backgrounds.
GIFT 4: I bring you the Gift of Altruism.
L: Through our International altruistic projects, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer
Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and many local and S/P/N projects you
will be able to share with others who are less fortunate or are in a time of need.
GIFT 5: I bring you the Gift of Fellowship.
L: Your membership in Alpha Delta Kappa will bring you life-long friendships that will
develop across chapter, S/P/N, provincial and national boundaries.
GIFT 6: I bring you the Gift of Personal/Professional Growth.
L: Each one of us brings our own special gift to Alpha Delta Kappa and receives much in
return. We teach – we learn – we grow.
GIFT 7: I bring you the Gift to Develop Leadership Skills.
L: This gift will help you benefit our educational area as well as the community in which we
live. Pledge, we are happy to Share these Gifts of Alpha Delta Kappa with you. May you
open each gift with care and may it last a lifetime. (Pause) (Pledge hugs each of her Gift
Sisters, thanking them)
L: However wonderful each of these gifts is, as women educators we know that at the end of
a long day of teaching, we only crave one gift. Therefore, this afternoon ___________
Chapter wants to present you with that special gift—a chocolate bar. Enjoy and happy
Founders’ Day!
(Gift Sisters pass out a ribbon-wrapped chocolate candy bar to each sister present)
Agnes (died 1987): (Select someone to portray)
Good morning, my name is Agnes Shipman Robertson. I along with my friends Marie
Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino, founded Alpha Delta Kappa in 1947.
(Wait for applause from the audience)
Let me tell you a little about myself. I was born in Joplin, Missouri and received my
foundational education in Joplin. I realized very early that I was musically gifted so,
when I went to college I majored in music with a minor in art.
I received my teaching credentials from Missouri State College in Springfield and

Peabody College in Nashville, Tennessee. After graduation, I returned to Joplin, and
became a music teacher, later becoming an assistant principal.
As head of the junior high music program, I was fortunate to teach many gifted young
musicians. Several of the groups under my tutelage earned recognition at interstate
competitions. In addition to my musical activities at school, I was also very active in
church and community musical groups. I often observed that schools could accomplish
more with better equipment and proper materials. When the opportunity presented itself, I
accepted a job with an educational company and traveled most of the United States and
Canada explaining the importance of proper equipment and materials, as well as their
efficient use by educators.
Through my travels with the educational company, I formed connections with many
teachers, superintendents and principals, and attended many National Education
Association conventions.
Speaking with teachers like myself, I learned that many knew of a fellow teacher in the
system, but did not know that teacher personally. I saw a need for an organization that
would facilitate teachers coming together and getting to know each other.
An organization that would serve as a catalyst to promote closer professional ties among
women educators.
2009: Founders’ Day Skit written by Carolyn Y. George-Remy, Eta Chapter; Adapted from Founders’ 1
Biographies posted on Alpha Delta Kappa Website.
http://www.alphadeltakappa.org/History/Founders.html
In discussions with my friend, Marie Neal we developed an organizational foundation for
Alpha Delta Kappa International Honorary Organization for Women Educators. Marie,
you remember those earlier days, what was it like?
Marie Neal
Marie (1969): (Select someone to portray)

Yes, Agnes, I remember it well. You and my husband Thomas, worked for the same book
company. We traveled to numerous teacher meetings across the country. Teachers came
in, listened to speeches and went their way. They were always well spoken, intelligent
and thirsty for new knowledge and opportunities.
But let me tell you my story.
I was also born in Joplin, Missouri. I received my teaching certificate in high school
history and economics from Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. While at Baker, I
served two terms as treasurer of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. My college sorority
experiences left a lasting impression on me. I always believed that a fraternal
organization could create a strong bond between women. This was the core belief that
was so important to the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa.
I married Thomas Neal of Kansas City in 1921 and accompanied him on all of his
business travels during the first year of our marriage. Because Tom’s company worked
closely with the public schools, I had the opportunity to meet many teachers and
educators. Their enthusiasm for their profession begged for an organization that
supported sisterhood among women educators. Thus began the early days of the
founding of Alpha Delta Kappa.
Agnes:
Yes, Marie. I became the organizational founder and you became the executive secretary-
treasurer of Alpha Delta Kappa. We quickly realized it was a job far larger than we had
imagined. I administered expansion and membership duties, while Marie conducted the
office work from her home in Kansas City. Marie, do you remember how much work
had to be done?
Marie:
Yes, Agnes, that’s why we are indebted to our friend Marion Southhall. Marion what do
you remember about those days?
Marion Southall
Marion (died in 1971): (Select someone to portray)
My memories of the earlier days center on the sense of enjoyment we felt as we played a
role in bringing women educators together to share our ideas about our profession. I
remember sitting at the table in your home, organizing the names, addresses and chapters,
keeping track of chapters. Things seemed to move very quickly. With Agnes as the
Founder of Alpha Delta Kappa, Marie became the executive secretary-treasurer and
Hattie Poppino and I were members of the first executive board. Those were exciting
times.
Perhaps everyone would like to hear my story.
I am a native of Kansas City, Missouri. I received my teaching credentials from Baker

University in Baldwin City, Kansas. Upon graduating from Baker, I accepted
employment with a local publishing house where I was in charge of proof reading and
accounting. I was also active in the Alpha Chi Omega alumnae chapter, as well as various
church and civic projects. When Agnes and Marie first approached me with the idea of
creating an organization for women educators, I wanted to help. Keeping track of the
many chapters and membership paperwork was a daunting task. As the organization
grew, we realized there may be legal implications to beginnings such an enterprise.
My husband, Richard C. Southall, was an attorney. Richard provided legal guidance and
would later act as general counsel to Alpha Delta Kappa.
The official song of Alpha Delta Kappa, "The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa" was
composed by my children Carolyn and Richard.
Since 1947, over 125,000 women educators around the world have discovered the many
opportunities provided by membership in Alpha Delta Kappa. I was honored to serve as
the first National Vice-President and head of the Executive Board.
Baker University produced many outstanding women of vision. Hattie, I remember you
felt very strongly that we were on the right track.
Hattie Poppino
Hattie(died in 1986): (Select someone to portray)
Yes, Marion I did. Hello, my name is Hattie Poppino. Just like my dear friend Marion, I
am a native of Kansas City, Missouri. I attended Baker University in Baldwin City,
Kansas, but earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Emporia State Teachers
College. I completed summer study at the University of Chicago.
I taught commerce and library skills for many years at Garnett and Chanute, in Kansas.
My classroom teaching experience was instrumental in formulating the policies and
aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. In 1945 I became the librarian at Argentine High
School in Kansas City, Kansas.
My interest and desire to serve lead me to become a member of several professional

associations; the National Education Association, the Kansas Teacher's Association, the
Kansas Library Association, and the Kansas Association of School Librarians are just a
few of the many organizations with whom I have had the privilege to associate .
But my richest memories will always be my participation in the founding of Alpha Delta
Kappa. When Alpha Delta Kappa was incorporated under Missouri law, Agnes, Marie,
Marion and I signed the incorporation agreement. Marion’s husband, Richard Southall,
was the attorney. What a proud moment that was.
On August 13, 1947, Alpha Delta Kappa, honorary fraternal organization for women
educators, was incorporated. Agnes served as the first Grand President from 1947-1955,
Executive Director from 1955-1985, and Executive Director Emeritus from 1985-1987.
Agnes:
Yes, we were proud of the women who began our organization and while we make
changes and go forward, we are proud of today’s sisters of Alpha Delta Kappa. We are
happy to be associated with professional people who try daily to maintain the rich
heritage of Alpha Delta Kappa drawing together in fellowship and enhancing their
professional attitudes and attributes.
Agnes, Marie, Marion, Hattie: You are Alpha Delta Kappa, and we salute you.
AN ALPHA DELTA KAPPA
Adapted by Georgia Upsilon Chapter
We meet today to honor our Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority.
August of 1947 saw their dream come alive, in the granting, by the state of Missouri, of a
charter to our organization, incorporating it as an Honorary Sorority allowed to organize
chapters in every state of the United States and elsewhere.
In 1947 everyone felt that all was well in the world; World War II had ended and there were
days of peace. This new organization was created in those peaceful times to give recognition to
the individual teacher as well as to gain recognition for the entire teaching profession.
The times have changed, but the purposes remain unchanged.
It is to honor the faith of our Founders that we assemble here today, to commemorate that first
spark of light which began to brighten our way.
The candles are lighted today as a reminder of their faith and a challenge to ours — a faith so
much needed in these not-so-peaceful times.
The F-A-I-T-H candles suggest our Founders, their characteristics, and our mutual blessings as
Alpha Delta Kappa sisters. (Light a small candle and use it to light the others).
F stands for the FELLOWSHIP (light candle) we enjoy in our chapter meetings and special
meetings, such as this one, when we gather to share our experiences.
A stands for the AFFECTION (light a candle) in which we hold each other, an affection born
of dedication to education, a love of learning and a love of learners.
I stands for INSPIRATION (light candle) which we get from each other, not envying the
successes of a sister, but being inspired by them and delighting in being a sister to someone
who has made an outstanding contribution in our chosen profession.
T stands for THOUGHTFULNESS (light candle), so characteristic of an Alpha Delta Kappa

sister. Our Founders were thoughtful in their planning for our organization, and you have
shown forth this thoughtfulness in your daily activities at school and in your chapters.
H stands for HAPPINESS (light candle), a rare commodity in many places, but in bountiful
supply in this organization — happiness in our shared ideals, our dedication to leaving the
world a little better than we found it, and a happiness born of good friends getting together to
express our love.
Can we better honor our Founders than to remember their fellowship, their affection, their
inspiration, their thoughtfulness and their happiness?
(Step away from the lighted candles in the candelabrum and hold the small candle, still lighted.)
In comparison with the combined light of this great sorority, our individual lights seem small.
But as a poet once said:
“Hold high the torch (lift the small candle)

You did not light its glow
'Twas given you by other hands, you know.
'Tis yours to keep it burning bright,
Yours to pass on when you no more need light;
For there are other feet that we must guide
And other forms go marching by our side . . .”

RECYCLE
Recognize the strengths and abilities of our

members.
Explore the abundance of resources we have within

our sorority.
Confirming our dedication to the high ideals of

Alpha Delta Kappa: friendship, love, education,
altruism....
Yield not to the pressures of society but stand firm in

our dedication
Celebrate sisterhood through Action with dedication
Love of learning and love of the learners
Enthusiasm -- enthusiasm shared among sisters

grows into action.
Reader 1
We come together today to remember our Founders

and to celebrate our membership in Alpha Delta
Kappa. It was through the vision, dedication , and
actions of Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal,
Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino that the state of
Missouri in 1947 issued a charter incorporating
Alpha Delta Kappa, allowing it to organize chapters
in every state and around the globe.
By the leadership of these women, we came together

and have learned to recycle ourselves and our varied
abilities just as they did.
Reader 2
R is for Recognizing the strengths and abilities of our

members.
Agnes noticed the lack of a catalyst to promote closer

professional ties among women educators. She
wondered and thought about how this could be
remedied. This was the very beginning of what is
now Alpha Delta Kappa. With her friend Marie
Neal, they formed our organization to recognize the
strengths and abilities of our members.
Reader 3:
E is for exploring the abundance of resources we

have within our sorority.
Marion Southall, an educator, proofreader and

accountant, and Hattie Poppino, a teacher and a
librarian joined in to promote commitment to
educational excellence, personal and professional
growth, and collectively channel their energies
toward the good of schools, communities, the
teaching profession and the world. Through
networking with women in the newly founded
Sorority, many resources among our members have
been made available to all our sisters.
Reader 4:
C is for confirming our dedication to the high ideals

of Alpha Delta Kappa: friendship, love, education,
altruism....
Our sorority has blossomed into many close

friendships which we show through our altruism:
Through our International altruistic projects, the

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and many local
and State projects we are able to share with others
who are less fortunate or are in a time of need.
Grants and scholarships forward our world

understanding through education. Our Founders put
this spark of enthusiasm to work together in 1947.
From humble beginnings, this flame of honor and
recognition for outstanding women educators has
spread like a wildfire through the world these past 55
years.
Reader 5:
Y reminds us to say Yes to our dedication and to our

high ideals, while saying no to the pressures of our
society. In a time when some chapters are
disbanding, we need to say yes to those transferring
to our chapters. That’s what our Founders would tell
us today: Keep those ideals high, recruit younger
women to breathe life into your chapter, welcome all
sisters, fan the flame of service in the name of
altruism often, and promote world peace.
Reader 6:
The second C is for Celebrating. We need to

celebrate sisterhood through Action with dedication.
Our fellowship at chapter meetings and special
meeting is a celebration on what can be accomplished
when we work together.
Reader 7:
L stands for Love; the love of learning and love of

the learners. As educators, this was a quality that our
Founders saw in sisters. Seeing this in others inspires
all sisters to make contributions to our profession.
Reader 8:
The second E is for Enthusiasm -- enthusiasm shared

among sisters grows into action. It was through the
enthusiasm of our Founders that Alpha Delta Kappa
has grown into the great sorority we have today.
Enthusiasm is infectious.
Reader 1:
As we conclude today, remember to always

RECYCLE -- as a tribute to our founders and a way
for us to stay strong in our sisterhood.
The Goddesses of Alpha Delta Kappa
This program was presented at the Dalton (GA) Fall District meeting on November 3, 2012.
The information in the program was compiled by Sandy Weathers of Georgia Gamma Beta.
Each goddess was represented by a Ridgeland High School student dressed in costume.
Athena’s props were the Greek letter Alpha, an owl perched on a stack of books, and an olive
branch.
Demeter’s props were the Greek letter Delta and a bundle of wheat.
Kore’s props were the Greek letter Kappa, a cornucopia, and a pot of violets in bloom.
Narrator: Cognizant of the need for an organized means of professional and social contact for
women educators, our founders Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and
Hattie Poppino decided to form this Greek letter Sorority. The letters they chose represent the
names of three Greek goddesses who symbolize the qualities the members of Alpha Delta Kappa
strive to emulate.
The characteristics of an Alpha Delta Kappa member are represented well by the three
goddesses, Athena, Demeter, and Kore. An Alpha Delta Kappa member must be an accredited
educator with enriched ability and be outstanding in her personal qualifications. Each of the
goddesses was known and respected for her ability. Just as our organization members must be
highly recommended by her peers and have attained a high degree of social acceptance in both
professional and community relationships, these three goddesses were loved and cherished by
the mortals whose lives they touched.
Athena: Before you is the Greek symbol Alpha that stands for my name, Athena. One of my
symbols it the owl, which represents wisdom. I use this wisdom to help heroes and to settle
predicaments. I am a goddess of war, and my presence on your side assures success! I am a
superb strategist, and have assisted many a brave hero overcome seemingly impossible tests
along his life’s pathway. I prefer using my wisdom to negotiate and problem-solve to keep the
peace among people on Earth.
The women educators of Alpha Delta Kappa must use wisdom daily in working with their
students. As educators, you lead students, enlighten their minds, and help them overcome life
obstacles.
Another of my symbols is the olive tree, which I gave as a gift to the city of Athens. Over the
centuries, my gift has provided food and shelter for people and cultures around the world. The
olive tree is seen as a symbol of not only wisdom, but also peace, hope, and light. Just as my gift
of the olive tree lives on, your gifts to students will endure throughout their lifetime and beyond.
Green is my color; therefore, as Alpha Delta Kappa members, you take olive green as one of
your colors.
Demeter: The Greek symbol Delta signifies my name, Demeter, the goddess of sowing and
reaping and the nurturer of mankind. In Greek mythology I am known as the most generous of
the great Olympian goddesses and am beloved for my service to mankind in giving the gift of the
harvest, the reward for cultivation of the soil. I am credited with teaching humans how to grow,
preserve, and prepare grain, and I am responsible for the fertility of the land.
As educators, your aim is to sow the desire for learning in the minds of youth so that the benefits
of your knowledge and experience may be reaped by them and shared with their fellow man.
Your instruction cultivates a fertile medium in your students that will continue to abundantly
produce a rich harvest of ideas and actions.
It has often been told that I am the only Greek goddess who was involved on a day-to-day basis
in the lives of the common folk. I can truly empathize with the human experience of suffering
and grief, having experienced it fully myself when my daughter was kidnapped. I never stopped
looking for her and am therefore known for my ferocity and endurance. As educators, you
remain firm and unwavering in your tireless work with children.
My symbol is a sheaf of grain, and yellow is my color as well as one of Alpha Delta Kappa’s
color. Yellow reflects the traits all of you possess--dependability, resourcefulness, and
reliability. Yellow combined with the olive green of Athena constitute the official colors of
Alpha Delta Kappa.
Kore: I am Kore, often known by the name Persephone, and I am daughter to Demeter. My
symbol is the Greek letter Kappa. I am associated with the seasons. I spend part of the year with
my mother, and the remainder with my husband. My mother is sad when I leave, and vegetation
upon the earth dies, ushering in the cold, barren winter. When I return in spring to visit my
mother, she awakens the earth and makes it beautiful once again with flowers and crops. As
educators, you strive to awaken the minds of youth so that their lives may become more beautiful
through the inspiration imparted to them.
My symbol is the cornucopia. This large, horn-shaped basket is filled with the fruits and
vegetables of a plenteous harvest. It is the symbol of abundance and nourishment, and shows the
land’s fertility and the result of a good year’s labor. This symbol represents the fruits of harvest
with which you are rewarded—your students’ successes.
The purple violet has been chosen as your symbolic flower because it incorporates the three
colors of the organization—green, yellow, and violet-- and it is most indicative of spring. The
symbolism associated with violets includes the traits all of you possess--modesty, virtue,
affection, watchfulness, faithfulness, love, and happiness.
Membership in Alpha Delta Kappa offers many opportunities – recognition of commitment to

educational excellence, personal and professional growth, and channeling energies toward the
good of their schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world. We are forever
indebted to our organization’s founders for enabling us to experience these life-changing
opportunities.
Founders in Harmony
By Bobbie Bailey, New Mexico Lambda Chapter
As we all know, our State President’s theme this year is World Understanding Through
Music and our Founders’ Day theme is Color Your World With Music. These musical
themes would have pleased our four Founders – Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal,
Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino.
It would have pleased them because our four Founders were able to work together in
harmony, although each had her very own unique gifts. Harmony can broadly be defined
as the combination of two or more musical tones heard simultaneously. As information
unfolds about these exceptional women, we will liken them to a harmonic musical chord.
Did you know that Agnes Shipman Robertson majored in music? She was indeed a music
teacher and at one time was head of a junior high music program. Several of the groups
under her tutelage earned recognition at interstate competitions. Agnes was also active in
church and community musical groups. As she was teaching, Agnes observed that schools
could accomplish more with better equipment and proper materials so she took a job with
an educational company and traveled all over the United States and Canada. Through her
travels and her work, Agnes noticed the lack of a catalyst to promote closer professional
ties among women educators. She wondered and thought about how this could be rem-
edied. This was the very beginning of what is now Alpha Delta Kappa. Let’s place Agnes at
the base, or the “root,” of our chord.
Agnes and Marie Neal were very good friends and shared the same concern regarding
the need for something to draw teachers together to enhance their professional attitudes
and attributes. Agnes and Marie talked, as women tend to do, and their discussions led to
Agnes becoming the organizational founder of our sorority and Marie becoming the ex-
ecutive secretary-treasurer. Agnes administered expansion and membership duties as she
continued to travel around the country, while Marie conducted the office work – keeping
records and handling the money - from her home in Kansas City. What a pair! Now Marie
becomes the second note in our chord.
Then along came Marion Southall, who, although not a musician but an educator, proof-
reader and accountant, did have a daughter, Carolyn, and a son, Richard, who were musi-
cians. In fact, Carolyn and Richard composed our official song, “The Lamp of Alpha Delta
Kappa.” How very proud Marion was of that accomplishment, as any mother would be!
Also, Marion’s husband, Richard, was the attorney who handled the incorporation of Alpha
Delta Kappa on August 13th, 1947. Alpha Delta Kappa was a “family affair” in that house-
hold! Marion becomes the third note in our chord.
Last, but not least, is Hattie Poppino, a native of Kansas City, who was a teacher for many
years before becoming a librarian. She joined Agnes, Marie and Marion as they continued
to work to form new Alpha Delta Kappa chapters to promote commitment to educational
excellence and personal and professional growth, and collectively channel their energies
toward the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world. Hattie
becomes the fourth and final note in our harmonic chord.
As each of these ladies’ note or tone was heard simultaneously, it made up the beautiful
sorority of Alpha Delta Kappa. They worked in complete harmony to organize this sorority
which means so very much to each one of us!
What a legacy these ladies have left us! Let’s remember that as we work side by side with
our sisters that we are like a lovely melody made up of harmonic chords and notes and
that the outcome of our labors together, as well as our fun together, will bring love, sup-
port and joy to others!
At this time, we’d like all of you to join with us as we not only sing, but also sign the beauti-
ful song made famous by Louis Armstrong, “What a Wonderful World.” Dorothy Andazo-
la-Price will teach us the signs and lead our singing.
Founders’ Day Service
“Light the Way”
We, who have come this evening in celebration and recognition of the _____th anniversary of
the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa have strong bonds uniting us. When we pledged ourselves
as sisters in this sorority, we became a part of an ever-growing dream, founded on friendship
and love: brought into being by faith and unswerving devotion to high ideals and professional
standards and developed through fraternal love and service.
To each of us who has given her life in the field of education, it is never commonplace to
remember together the happiness and the thrills, the joys and the sorrows and even the tears
which are a part of living. Because we have all known this part of life, we share with one
another a knowledge which binds us ever closer in ties of understanding.
Through our association we have formed close friendships, true pearls along life’s varied way.
We have known the pleasure of seeing others join us . . . and become a part of our fraternity
and its ideals. We have known the excitement of active participation, and we have shared the
thrill of watching our sorority grow and expand to become international in scope, and to gain
prestige and far-reaching recognition.
We have found in our association not only love and friendship, but opportunities to serve, a
source of strength, inspiration, faith and a constant admonition to lift up our eyes to ever-
widening horizons.
As we meet in recognition of our _____th anniversary, let us pause to remember that we are
today sisters in Alpha Delta Kappa, proud of our past achievements and confident of future
goals, because of the vision and actions of our Founders, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marion
Southall, Marie Neal and Hattie Poppino.
August of 1947 saw their dream come alive, in the granting, by the state of Missouri, of a
charter to our organization, incorporating it as an Honorary Sorority allowed to organize
chapters in every state of the United States.
In 1947, everyone felt that all was well in the world; World War II had ended and peace and
prosperity prevailed. This organization was created in those peaceful times to give recognition
to the individual teacher as well as to gain recognition for the entire teaching profession.
The times have changed. September 11, 2001 taught us that our beloved nation is not sacro-
sanct. Our world will forever be different, but the purposes and ideals of our organization
remain unchanged.
It is to honor the faith of our Founders that we assemble here today, to commemorate that first
spark of light which began to brighten our way.
L is for the LOVE (light candle) The love our Founders held for our profession. The love we share
with one another, born of a dedication to education, a love of learning, and a love of learners.
I is for INSPIRATION (light candle) The inspiration which led to the founding of Alpha Delta
Kappa. The inspiration we receive from each other, being inspired and delighted in being a
sister to someone who has made an outstanding contribution in our chosen profession.
G is for GROWTH (light candle) The growth of Alpha Delta Kappa into an International Orga-
nization supporting many altruistic projects and providing a multitude of scholarships. Growth
as individuals in both mind and spirit, growth as teachers in knowledge and understanding,
growth as an organization enriching our lives as we reach out to share with the lives of others.
H is for HAPPINESS (light candle) The happiness created by our Founders as they recognized
those first special educators in that first chapter. Happiness is a rare commodity in many
places, but in bountiful supply in this organization — happiness in our shared ideals, our
dedication to leaving the world a little better than we found it, and a happiness born of good
friends sharing time together.
T is for THOUGHTFULNESS (light candle) The thoughtfulness of our Founders in planning

our organization. Thoughtfulness is so characteristic of an Alpha Delta Kappa sister. Alpha
Delta Kappas continually show forth thoughtfulness in daily activities at school and in their
chapters through various altruistic endeavors.
Can we better honor our Founders than to remember the LOVE they shared, the INSPIRA-
TION with which they led, the GROWTH their foresight set in motion, the HAPPINESS they
created, and the THOUGHTFULNESS with which they planned our organization? Yes, our
Founders did “Light the Way!”
In comparison with the combined light of this great sorority, our individual lights may seem
small, but as a poet once said:
“Hold high the torch

You did not light its glow
’Twas given you by other hands, you know.
’Tis yours to keep it burning bright,
Yours to pass on when you no more need light;
For there are other feet that we must guide
And other forms go marching by our side . . .”
— Contributed by Louisiana Alpha Lambda Chapter; Written by Rhonda Harvey, Louisiana

Alpha Lambda Chapter
Alpha Delta Kappa FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY
“SHARE THE GIFT”
By 2001-2003 International Vice President, South Central Region Melinda McGee
(Start with six, small decorated gift boxes and one large box with the bottom and top deco-
rated separately. As each gift is discussed, it is put into the large box. When all gifts have
been discussed the lid is put onto the large box. I distributed the six boxes to different people
and had them each present the gift and put it into the large box.)
At the 2003 International Convention in Dallas, our 2003-2005 International President Colleen
Jacobson announced the 2003-2005 International theme and asked us to “Share the Gift.” You
might ask yourself, as did others, “What gift, what does she mean?” Membership in Alpha
Delta Kappa affords us many gifts. Today we will examine six gifts that Alpha Delta Kappa
offers to us AND then we will reflect on the special gifts you have to offer Alpha Delta
Kappa.
The first gift is that of altruism. When we think of educators and altruism we naturally think
of scholarships. However, we as Alpha Delta Kappa members, have not only awarded thou-
sands of dollars in educational scholarships, we have opened our hearts and pocketbooks to St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Pediatric Aids Foundation and the Susan G. Komen
Breast Cancer Foundation. These are just a few the many charities that have been recipients of
time and money of Alpha Delta Kappa members. Our 2001-2003 International altruistic report
showed that over $9 million in money and gifts was donated during that biennium in the name
of Alpha Delta Kappa. Quite an impressive gift, don’t you agree?
The second gift is scholarships for our members. There are numerous opportunities for mem-
bers to obtain funds to develop personally or professionally. Each of the seven regions awards
a $2,500 scholarship to one of its members for advanced study or projects connected with a
degree program. Each region also awards Mini-Scholarships each year for us to attend per-
sonal or professional continuing education programs. The Living Memorial Scholarship is also
a scholarship awarded to one Alpha Delta Kappa sister each year to expand knowledge and
develop classroom materials.
The Excellence in Education Award is a new award. A $5,000 award is given to one sister at
each International Convention. The deadline for the submitting nominations is Dec. 15 of the
odd-numbered years. The S/P/N and regional recipients will be announced at S/P/N conven-
tions and regional conference. Information about the Excellence in Education Award and all of
our scholarships is available on-line at the Alpha Delta Kappa International Web Site.
The third gift of Alpha Delta Kappa is that of leadership development. At each regional con-
ference or S/P/N and International convention, workshops are provided for chapter officers
and members that will help develop leadership skills and strategies that can be used for per-
sonal or professional growth. We are fortunate in Alpha Delta Kappa to have exceptional
leadership from which to obtain knowledge and skills to become more effective leaders.
Participation in these conventions and conferences will only enhance our effectiveness as
leaders.
Let’s not forget the gift of world understanding. Alpha Delta Kappa has included in our mis-
sion statement the goal of promoting world understanding. Each regional conference and
International convention, workshops are presented about different countries and cultures. In
the South Central Region, we are fortunate to have Mexico, which gives us a first-hand look at
what other cultures are experiencing at this time. As a sorority, we also donate thousands of
dollars to scholarships for deserving young educators from foreign countries to enhance their
education and promote our understanding of their countries and cultures. These young people
come together with us at the ITE Weekend in Kansas City at Headquarters to discuss their
cultures, as well as express their gratitude for helping to make their dreams come true. Some
of them have also attended our International conventions and regional conferences to present
workshops about their cultures and fellowship with us.
Which brings us to our fifth gift - that of fraternal fellowship. I feel that this is the greatest gift
that Alpha Delta Kappa has to offer. “Gems are precious, but fraternal fellowship is price-
less.” In our chapters we have those who are there for us when we need the gifts of love,
support and understanding. But I know there are many of us today that can say we have
friends that we would not otherwise have if it weren’t for Alpha Delta Kappa. On the S/P/N,
regional or International level I know I have those I can turn to when I need help or advice on
any number of issues. Truly a special gift!
The last gift is why we are gathered here today - our heritage. In 1947, four dedicated women
educators founded our sorority. Their goal was to create an honorary organization for out-
standing women educators. The organization would not only strengthen the commitment to
education, but further altruistic endeavors, as well. Our Founders, Marie Neal, Hattie Poppino,
Marion Southall and Agnes Shipman Robertson gave us the purposes and precepts for an organiza-
tion that has now grown to nearly 50,000 members in all fifty states, Canada, Mexico, Ja-
maica, Puerto Rico and Australia. What a gift they have given us!
We have examined six gifts that Alpha Delta Kappa has to offer us; now let’s reflect on what
gifts each of us have to offer Alpha Delta Kappa.
(Speakers 1-6 stand and bring their gift box and place it in the big box as they tell us what
special gift they have. Examples could be enthusiasm, willingness to learn, knowledge of
Alpha Delta Kappa, love of Alpha Delta Kappa, presenting workshops at conventions and
conferences, etc. )

Could use the following and change it to a Smile of Vitality, a Smile of Growth – a
beaming expression?
North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa Founders Day Ceremony 2012-2014 August 13,
1947- Alpha Delta Kappa International Honorary Sorority for Female educators was
officially incorporated. This year we celebrate sixty-five years of sisterhood. Sixty-five
years of honoring female educators. Sixty-five years of service to our communities-
locally, statewide, and Internationaly. Sixty-five years of striving for world understanding.
Sixty-five years of building our sorority by following the goals, the principles, the
precepts, the purposes of Alpha Delta Kappa. As we reflect on the North Carolina Alpha
Delta Kappa theme for the 2012-2014 biennium “Life Giving Inspiration”, we are able to
envision more clearly how our path, our journey as a sorority was sparked by the life
giving inspiration of four very special individuals, our founders. Agnes Shipman
Robertson – Born January 24, 1895 - joined the Omega Chapter, April 27, 1987. We light
a candle to represent her Ray of Vitality and Growth. She was a music teacher. She was
later an Assistant Principal. Through her travels across the United States with an
educational company, Agnes formed connections with many educators and realized
through these discussions that educators needed a way to come together, to get to know
each other. Her Ray of Vitality is evident in the remarks by Former Executive
Administrator Opal Lunsford, “Agnes was 24 hours a day, eight days a week, Alpha
Delta Kappa.” She states further that, “Agnes was the promoter…” Her Ray of Growth is
demonstrated in her efforts to grow Alpha Delta Kappa. She carried initiation materials to
install new chapters in the trunk of her car. She would begin about 3 chapters in a state
and leave them with field representatives she had trained to assist the state in developing
more chapters on its own. Ms. Lunsford also shared that even after Agnes retired, she
continued to promote Alpha Delta Kappa until she joined the Omega Chapter. Marie
Neal- Born November 16, 1898… Joined the Omega Chapter, May 20, 1969. We light a
candle to represent her Ray of Passion and Energy. She received her teaching
certification in high school history and economics. Her Ray of Passion began with her
experience in her collegiate sorority. This enhanced her belief that a fraternal
organization could create a strong bond between women. As she traveled with her
husband, Thomas H. Neal, to teachers meetings where he represented a book company,
her passion and concern for educators deepened. Her comments support this: “Teachers
came in (to the meetings) , listened to speeches and went their way. We talked about how
they needed something to draw them together and to enhance their professional attitudes
and attributes.” Marie’s Ray of Energy emerges with her efforts with Agnes to begin new
chapters. She continued to serve Alpha Delta Kappa as Executive Secretary-Treasurer
from 1947 until she joined the Omega Chapter. Marion Southhall-Born July 27, 1897…
Joined the Omega Chapter, May 16, 1971. We light a candle to represent her Ray of
Loyalty and Creativity. She received her teaching credentials and was employed by a
local publishing house where she was in charge of proof reading and accounting. With
her special leadership capabilities, we witness her Ray of Loyalty as she served as the
first National VicePresident and head of the Executive Board. It is after Marion joined
the Omega chapter, that through her children Carolyn and Richard Southall, we see the
Ray of Creativity. From their mother’s loyalty to our sorority, they were able to
creatively compose our official Alpha Delta Kappa song, “The Lamp of Alpha Delta
Kappa”. Hattie Poppino- Born February 11, 1897…Joined the Omega Chapter September
22, 1986. We light a candle to represent her Ray of Purpose and Direction. She taught
commerce and library and later became a high school librarian. Her experience with
various professional organizations and her teaching experience fostered her Ray of
Purpose and Direction. We give her much credit for working to develop the policies and
aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. Furthermore, we see life giving inspiration in the
chartering of North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa, April 3, 1954. We light a candle to
represent our Ray of Honor and Pride in 58 years of giving. Fiftyeight years of service.
We shine in our support of Camp Carefree and the Ronald McDonald House. We shine
with pride in providing, as a state, in the giving of $10,000 dollars in student scholarships
and $2,000 in the North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa Grant for an educator who is a
member of our sorority. In 2010, we are proud to have added the Mary Ruth Heil,
“Excellence in Action Awards”, to provide mini-grants to NC Public school students in
grades 6-12. We honor our founders by continuing to preserve the legacy of our sorority
through our continued service. We light a candle to represent our Ray of Individuality
and Will power. We seek to celebrate our diversity and enrich our understanding of and
connection to our global community with the North Carolina Executive Board
establishing a World Understanding Committee. We further encourage each chapter to
add a World Understanding Committee. Our diversity, our individuality enriches our
sisterhood. We hold strongly to the Ray of Will Power, as we move forward in an ever
changing world with the determination to preserve our history and secure our legacy by
continually examining our efforts and initiating changes which will strengthen North
Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa for the future. “Hold high the torch You did not light its
glow ’Twas given you by other hands, you know. ’Tis yours to keep it burning bright,
Yours to pass on when you no more need light; For there are other feet that we must
guide And other forms go marching by our side . . .” Thank you for choosing to be a part
of North Carolina Alpha Delta Kappa. May the warmth of Life Giving Inspiration radiate
from each of us during this biennium.
Alpha Delta Kappa’s Founders’ Day is observed each year in the fall throughout our
International Sorority. Founders’ Day Ceremonies may be traditional or creative, and
ours is a little of both. It combines Alpha Delta Kappa history with this year’s Founders’
Day theme “SMILE”. We have taken inspiration and words from the many Founders’
Day ceremonies available on the ADK website and acknowledge the help of our ADK
sisters in the creation of today’s ceremony.
Fifty-seven years ago in the state of Missouri, four women, Agnes Shipman Robertson,
Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino saw the need for and created an
organization which recognized and supported the professional efforts of outstanding
women educators. These women of vision created the organization known as Alpha Delta
Kappa which united the women members through the common goals of service and
educational excellence, providing inspiration and worldwide understanding.
As an organization, Alpha Delta Kappa is committed to SERVICE to others. We promote

SERVICE educational and charitable projects, and our altruism is known around the
world. Each year sisters give many thousands of dollars and an almost equal number of
hours to local and state causes. Whether they are making sandwiches for a food bank or
running a pancake breakfast to raise funds for disabled children, Alpha Delta Kappa
members are ready to help. Through sponsoring of scholarships and cooperation with
worthy community programs related to education, we have made our name synonymous
with SERVICE.
As a fraternal organization we thrive on the friendships that we make and the support that
we each give and receive. The experiences that bind us together as a sisterhood provide
the MEMORIES that we share at meetings, conferences, conventions and Founders’ Day
celebrations. When disaster strikes or there is a personal loss, there is always a sister to
depend on. In times of sorrow or happiness, sisters share our MEMORIES.
I stands for INSPIRATION which we get from each other, not envying the successes of
a sister, but being inspired by them and delighting in being a sister to someone who has
made an outstanding contribution in our chosen profession.
When we are initiated, we make a promise. We make a commitment that we will uphold
the IDEALS of Alpha IDEALS Delta Kappa. We commit ourselves to promoting
excellence in education, on every level. We vow to strive for the goals set by our
International executive board, our region, our S/P/N and our local chapter. We say that
we will uphold our sisters in this sorority and support them in accordance with the
principles of Alpha Delta Kappa. As members of Alpha Delta Kappa, these high IDEALS
are IDEALS within our reach.
We light this candle for Agnes Shipman Robertson, and in remembrance of the ideal of
LOYALTY. The bright, steady light from this star gives us the guidance to cast our doubt,
jealousy and prejudice from our lives, so that we may glow with sincerity and integrity.
L stands for Love; the love of learning and love of the learners. As educators, this was a
quality that our Founders saw in sisters. Seeing this in others inspires all sisters to make
contributions to our profession.
The second E is for Enthusiasm -- enthusiasm shared among sisters grows into action. It
was through the enthusiasm of our Founders that Alpha Delta Kappa has grown into the
great sorority we have today. Enthusiasm is infectious.
E is for exploring the abundance of resources we have within our sorority. Marion
Southall, an educator, proofreader and accountant, and Hattie Poppino, a teacher and a
librarian joined in to promote commitment to educational excellence, personal and
professional growth, and collectively channel their energies toward the good of schools,
communities, the teaching profession and the world. Through networking with women in
the newly founded Sorority, many resources among our members have been made
available to all our sisters.
The PROMISE of Alpha Delta Kappa
Joanne Bebel, New Jersey Iota
Need: Seven picture frames – each containing one large letter of the word P-R-O-M-I-S-E,
seven candles, and seven past S/P/N presidents (PP’s).
Frames should be face down on table and placed by an unlit candle.
NARRATOR (1st Past President)

What are we celebrating today? To steal the words of Sophia from the Golden Girls, “Picture
it. Missouri, 1947.”
The country was in a state of celebration. Our men were back from the war to end all wars.
The women who had taken over the jobs in our country were leaving them to return to the
home and raise the children who were later known as the “Baby Boomers.”
Harry Truman was president. The Academy Awards went to Gentleman’s Agreement, and
movie idols Ronald Colman and Loretta Young. The hot songs were: “Golden Earrings,”
“Chi-Baba Chi-Baba,” “Almost Like Being In Love.”
The sports pages touted the winnings of Joe Lewis and the NY Yankees. The headlines
covered the creation of The Air Force being established as a separate service. Rockefeller
donates land for the UN Center.
A gallon of gasoline was a whopping .15¢. Milk, .78¢ a gallon. Bread, .13¢ a loaf. Gold
was $35 dollars an ounce. The Dow Jones hit a high of 177.
A new house cost $6,650. A new car of $1,290 took a big chunk out of an average salary of
$2,854. The latest inventions: the long playing record and the transistor.
2nd Past President reads while 1st PP turns up frame to reveal the letter P and lights the
candle.
What possible relevance could an organization created in 1947, have to do with us in this
year? We have only to look as far as our PURPOSES
PURPOSES:
• The recognition of outstanding women educators
• The fraternal fellowship among women in the teaching profession
• The promotion of educational and charitable projects, sponsorship of scholarships, and
cooperation with worthy community programs related to education
• The contribution to world understanding and goodwill through an international fellowship
of women educators.
In answer to the question of why are we here today: We are here to celebrate the visions of
our Founders, and to renew our commitment to the purposes for which this organization was
created.
3rd Past President reads while 2nd PP turns up frame to reveal the letter R and lights the
candle.
In August of 1947 we REALIZED the dream of our Founders with the granting, by the state
of Missouri, of a charter to our organization, incorporating it as an Honorary Sorority allowed
to organize chapters in every state and elsewhere. It was from that dream, from that first
chapter, that we have grown to an organization of over 1,600 chapters with membership of
nearly 50,000 women educators across not only the United States, but also in Canada,
Mexico, Australia, Puerto Rico and Jamaica.
4th Past President reads while 3rd PP turns up frame to reveal the letter O and lights the
candle.
As our sorority grew to include educators from all levels and locations, our conferences,
workshops, and speakers have given us the chance to expand our professional talents, enhance
our skills and increase our personal knowledge. One of our goals for this biennium is to
provide our members with professional development programs. The scholarships available to
members also are a continuation of the vision of our Founders.
Alpha Delta Kappa has served its members by providing OPPORTUNITIES from which to
grow.
5th Past President reads while 4th PP turns up frame to reveal the letter M and lights the
candle.
As a fraternal organization we thrive on the friendships that we make and the support that we
each give and receive. The experiences that bind us together as a sisterhood provide the
MEMORIES that we share at meetings, conferences, conventions and Founders’ Day
celebrations. Sisters that we may only encounter once every two years at the International
Convention become fast friends while those with whom we interact on a regular basis become
more family than friends. Whether disaster strikes or there is a personal loss, there is always
a sister to depend on. In times of sorrow or happiness, sisters share our MEMORIES
MEMORIES.
6th Past President reads while 5th PP turns up frame to reveal the letter I and lights the
candle.
When we are initiated, we make a promise. We make a commitment that we will uphold the
IDEALS of Alpha Delta Kappa. We commit ourselves to promoting excellence in education,
on every level. We vow to strive for the goals set by our International executive board, our
region, our S/P/N and our local chapter. We say that we will uphold our sisters in this
sorority and support them in accordance with the principles of Alpha Delta Kappa. As
members of Alpha Delta Kappa, these high IDEALS are within our reach.
7th Past President reads while 6th PP turns up frame to reveal the letter S and lights the
candle.
As an organization, Alpha Delta Kappa is committed to SERVICE to others. We promote
educational and charitable projects, and our altruism is known around the world. Each year
sisters give many thousands of dollars and an almost equal number of hours to local and state
causes. Whether they are making sandwiches for a food bank or running a pancake breakfast
to raise funds for disabled children, Alpha Delta Kappa members are ready to help. Through
sponsoring of scholarships and cooperation with worthy community programs related to
education, we have made our name synonymous with SERVICESERVICE.
S/P/N President reads while 7th PP turns up frame to reveal the letter E and lights the
candle.
EXPERIENCES that fill life with joy complete our International theme: (Read current
International theme). Our Founders defined our PURPOSE, they REALIZED their dream, we
have been provided with and accepted OPPORTUNITIES for professional leadership and
growth, creating MEMORIES in the process, upholding the IDEALS of sisterhood, fulfilling
our goal of SERVICE, and creating EXPERIENCES to cherish. Today we also honor
(number) of our sisters who have lived that promise for 25 years and (number) of our sisters
who have lived that promise for 50 years. Will the following people please come forward
(and stand in front of the table) as I call your names?
(Read chapter and names of new Silver and Golden)
We honor these ladies as they celebrate 25 and 50 years of service to Alpha Delta Kappa. To
you, your sisters present the guard of a Silver Sister or Golden Sister, to be worn with pride,
as it is given with pride, for the contributions that you have made in the name of Alpha Delta
Kappa during those years. Congratulations upon reaching these milestones.
At this time, I ask that we all join hands for the Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.
FOUNDERS’ DAY SERVICE
Written by Rose Marie Flory, Oregon Epsilon Chapter
Our ideals are like stars; we do not always reach them, but they guide us and lead us. In all
sorts of weather the star is the mariner’s faithful friend. Stars, too, are guide posts. They attract
the magnetic needle. And in human affairs all great achievement is due to some attracting ideal.
If you follow the ideal long enough it will guide you past siren shores to true treasures. Stars
are to be wished upon by children, and to be put in the eyes of young lovers.
Today, as we celebrate Founders’ Day, we think of the ideals set forth by four women, who,
with stars in their eyes, accomplished their dreams in the realization of Alpha Delta Kappa. Let
us light the topmost candle for Alpha Delta Kappa . . . the star we will continue to set our
sights on.
We light a candle in honor of Marion Southall, and in remembrance of the ideal of VISION.
Vision . . . the star that beckons us when we become discouraged and fretful. Though clouds
may sometimes cause this star to pass out of view, it will not be obliterated because it is our
faith in God.
We light this candle in honor of Marie Neal, and in Remembrance of the ideal SERVICE. We
continue to group for this star because we always rise with unabated courage to be of help to
others.
We light this candle in honor of Hattie Poppino, and in remembrance of the ideal of FRIEND-
SHIP. Friendship is the star we hold as precious. Go where you will; it is faithfully with you.
This star will shine brighter than ever when nurtured with love and attention.
We light this candle for Agnes Shipman Robertson, and in remembrance of the ideal of LOY-
ALTY. The bright, steady light from this star gives us the guidance to cast our doubt, jealousy
and prejudice from our lives, so that we may glow with sincerity and integrity.
Let us continue to keep our candles aglow so that they, like the stars, will always be bright, as
we work with patient heart and hand for ourselves, and for others.
Roots of Tradition…Wings to Soar
Founders’ Day Program
October is the month we celebrate the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. The International
theme is “Roots of Tradition…Wings to Soar”, and the logo is a majestic oak with a dove
taking flight from its stately branches.
Alpha Delta Kappa was founded in 1947 by Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal,
Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino. These women shared a dream of an organization
for recognition of and fellowship with outstanding women educators. We can compare
their dreams to acorns that are carefully planted and spring up as a tiny oak that after
years of careful tending will become the mighty oak depicted in our logo.
We meet here today in sweet fellowship with our sister chapter for two purposes. First,
we recognize and cling to the traditions, represented by the ROOTS of the oak, initiated
and planted by our founders.
R is for RECOGNITION and the first O is for OUTSTANDING. We wish to recognize

outstanding educators who are committed to educational excellence and personal and
professional growth. Alpha Delta Kappa sisters make a difference in their community
and in the lives of their students.
The second O is for OPPORTUNITIES. Alpha Delta Kappa provides opportunities for
its members through scholarships and professional development. We provide
opportunities for our communities through the numerous altruistic projects carefully
planned and lovingly implemented by our chapters.
T is for TEACHING. We know the joy that comes from teaching, and we treasure the
time we spend with our students as we help them grow in character and in wisdom.
S is for SUPPORT. Alpha Delta Kappa sisters support each other through the hills and
the valleys that dot the landscape of our lives. Even though we may see our sisters only
once a month, we always feel their love and support and know a sister is nearby when we
are burdened.
The second purpose for our meeting today is to recognize the need to build on our
founders’ traditions and renew our commitment to reach out to our sisters, students, and
communities. We continue to move forward, growing and learning as educators, just as
the dove with its WINGS soars high above the oak.
W is for WORLD Understanding. As an important part of Alpha Delta Kappa’s mission

statement, one of our purposes is to contribute to world understanding, goodwill, and
peace through international fellowship of women educators united in the ideals of
education.
I is for INNOVATION. Just as our founders were innovative in the creation of Alpha
Delta Kappa, we strive to find new ways to support and inspire our sisters, students, and
communities. We are constantly searching for new opportunities to enrich our lives and
the lives of others through altruistic projects.
N is for NURTURING. As you look around at your sisters in this room, you will realize
that we are all nurturers. We cultivate and encourage the best qualities to emerge from
our students, fellow-sisters, and those with whom we work everyday.
G is for GENUINE. One definition of genuine is “sincere and honest”. Alpha Delta
Kappa sisters do not work for recognition but rather work because we have a genuine
desire to help others and leave the world a better place than we found it.
S is for SERVICE. We show our love for others by serving. We serve our school by
promoting high standards for education, our students by the patient and loving instruction
we give, and our community with our many endeavors to meet various needs.
As we meet today, may we remember the “roots” of tradition that grew from the acorns
of ideals planted by our founders, and may we continue to use our “wings” to soar to new
heights in our journey to promote excellence in education and in serving others.
Marie Neal, one of Alpha Delta Kappa’s founders, said:
“If there is such a thing as a philosophy of life, I would recommend to anyone to keep
busy with worthwhile projects, look for the good in people, have a genuine love in your
heart for all humanity, be able to see another’s point of view, and never get so involved
in your own ideas that you are not able to see the viewpoint of the youth of America.”
Post September 11, 2001 Founders’ Day
Joanne Bebel, NJ Iota
Need: 5 candles on ceremony table, 4 past state presidents, at least one candle at each table
While trying to prepare a Founders’ Day Ceremony and Celebration for today, I had an
extremely difficult time. Both personal and international events were so overwhelming that I
could not find a context into which anything else could fit. It wasn’t until Tuesday morning,
while preparing to speak with prospective members, that I was able to do so. The context that
I found was the list of purposes for which four women established a sorority and our own
membership.
The current cliché is that September 11th was the day that changed the world. That cliché is
just too broad in scope for me to assimilate its meaning. I need to view it within my own
perspective and experiences. For anyone else that was looking, September 11th was the day
that educators demonstrated how vast a role they play in society. It began in lower Manhattan
when students witnessed – outside the classroom windows – the explosion in the towers – the
very towers where some of their parents worked. Amidst the visual horror and chaos on the
street, teachers maintained an order that safely led classroom after classroom, building after
building, out of harm’s way. Many educators in New York, in New Jersey, Maryland,
Virginia, Los Angles and other places in around our country, spent that morning, afternoon
and evening waiting with students to learn the fate of their parents.
That was only the beginning. As schools reopened, programs were already in place for crisis
counseling, grief counseling and educators were called upon to explain something they
themselves could not comprehend, and help in a healing process for which they themselves
had not yet healed. It was educators who were called upon to apply their skills in the teaching
of cultural diversity and acceptance to offset the strong bias that such an event can generate.
We grieve for the three teachers from Washington, D.C. who accompanied their students on a
plane that ultimately crashed into the pentagon.
The job description for today’s teacher is not the same job description for which I signed a
contract 31 years ago. It has been greatly expanded. Those active in education need our
support and encouragement to continue the great job that they are doing.
Looking at the purposes of our sorority and its application for our membership today:
1. The recognition of outstanding women educators and promotion of high standards of
education. Look at your colleagues. In an age when accountability no longer means
accountability to students and community but rather accountability to politicians, we each
need to take an active role in supporting and honoring a colleague with an offer to
membership.
2. Fraternal fellowship. It’s a beautiful weekend and we could all use a day to sleep in and
relax at home. Why did you come here today? How many of you already talked current
events today? Is there a colleague of yours who would have benefited from being here
today also?
3. The promotion of educational and charitable projects. Today we have with us the
recipient of our Joan McCabe Scholarship. Many of us have also brought baby items to
contribute to one of our three state charities. The raffles that we participated in today
raised money for chapter altruistic and scholarship projects. The Race For the Cure that
we will be participating in on October 28th goes toward our International altruistic project –
the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Don’t you have a colleague that would be
proud to contribute also?
4. And lastly, the contribution to world understanding. Following September 11, the
International Web Site at www.alphadeltakappa.org featured messages from Alpha Delta
Kappa members around the world related to September 11th. If you have never truly felt
the meaning of membership in an International Organization, consider the notes that were
posted to you from your sisters in Ontario, Mexico, Queensland Australia, Nova Scotia,
England, Manitoba and states around this country. There was a note from a member who
came to this country for the International Convention this summer and while here made a
trip to New York City and had her picture taken at the twin towers, and its meaning to her
now.
How these women, our Founders, created a sorority in 1947 years ago that is still viable and
relevant today is a credit to their vision. THERE IS context in which this organization fits
into our current events.
It is appropriate that we honor each of them by name;

Hattie Poppino (candle lit)
Marion Southall (candle lit)
Marie Neal (candle lit)
Agnes Shipman Robertson (candle lit)
There is a candle on each table. Will one person at the table pick it up. I ask each of our past
state presidents representing New Jersey’s heritage to take the light from each candle of our
Founders and pass that light to a candle at one of the tables. I ask the person accepting the
light to light the candle at the next table. As the light passes around the room, let it be a
symbol of the expansion of their vision from one chapter to over 1,700 other chapters.
(Flame passes around room)
As the light returns to our Founders, we light the final candle for the future of our sorority
and its purposes. As we now extinguish the candles at the tables, be it with the personal
promise of honoring our Founders by expanding their vision and working to personally bring
in one new member.
I hope to receive an invitation to visit each of your chapters at your next initiation to help
welcome these members into sisterhood.
I again thank our own past state presidents.

“An Alpha Delta Kappa Gift for You”
By Paula Raeke, 2002-2004 Texas State President
(This is a ceremony using 5 nesting boxes. I found some wonderful ones at Garden Ridge
Pottery. When it is over, they can be used as gift boxes. After the last box is put inside the
others, someone will need to put the lids on inside the biggest box, close it and tie a ribbon
around all of them. The bigger the bow, the better. If no nesting boxes are available, then
one big box could be used with little gift boxes decorated in Alpha Delta Kappa colors to go
inside it.)
There are many gifts for you on this table today. We shall put them together and see what
happens. You may be surprised to find they all fit together in a way that you will never
forget. Let us Share the Gift of Alpha Delta Kappa.
(participants can hold each box as they talk, or set it on the table)
(biggest box: take off lid and set it on the table)

The first gift of Alpha Delta Kappa is the gift of fellowship as a member that is like no other
professional organization — the life-long friendships that can develop that cross chapter, state,
provincial and national boundaries form bonds across miles. Share your gift of Alpha Delta
Kappa by inviting a teacher to visit your chapter and get to know her better. We Share the
Gift of fellowship in Alpha Delta Kappa.
(next biggest box: set it inside the biggest one with lid off)
Participation and leadership in our organization as well as our profession is the second gift.
With the growth of personal/professional relationships as we serve one another with whatever
gifts each of us has received is a result of Alpha Delta Kappa membership. Leadership skills
are developed to benefit our educational area as well as the community in which we live. Most
members find they are excelling because of confidence in their leadership abilities.
Experience as a participant in Alpha Delta Kappa says much for itself. We Share the Gifts of
leadership and participation in Alpha Delta Kappa.
(third box: goes inside the other two with lid off)
Next, you will find the gift of altruism — not only in scholarships given from chapters up
through International levels, but in acts and works of kindness and caring. These acts are
multiplied many times over because working as a group can certainly make an impact much
more that working alone. Who would believe that approximately 50,000 teachers could donate
over $9 million for others?
We Share the Gift of altruism in Alpha Delta Kappa.
(fourth box: goes inside the others with lid off)

We can’t leave out the gift of world understanding. Members must become acquainted with
sisters of various cultures, races and ethnic backgrounds. Offering the International Teacher
Education scholarships over the years has been a boost for our world understanding. Seeing
those young women return to their country and be successful makes it all worthwhile. Having
contact during International conventions with the members of different countries was very
successful. We Share the Gift of world understanding in Alpha Delta Kappa.
(smallest box: keep lid on it and set it inside the others)

The smallest gift — but one of the biggest gifts of our sorority is that of our heritage. The
four Founders of Alpha Delta Kappa — Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Hattie
Poppino and Marion Southall, had vision in a big way for us. They wanted a sorority that
would recognize outstanding women in the field of education. They gave us motivation to
recruit new members when they set up the purposes of goals of the sorority. They gave us the
encouragement to help others in any way we can. They gave us the dedication of being strong
members in an organization that supports good leaders and educators.
Let us salute our Founders — Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Hattie Poppino and
Marion Southall by Sharing the Gifts of our heritage of Alpha Delta Kappa today.
(Put other lids on boxes and close the last one. Tie a big bow around the whole set.)

Created by Paula Raeke and Patti Krause, Texas Alpha Delta Kappa
"Star light, star bright,

First star I see tonight.
I wish I may, I wish I might
Have this wish I wish tonight."
Just as children recite Mother Goose rhymes, we have all wished upon a star at some time or
other. It’s usually when the first star, Venus, comes out at night to catch our attention that we
remember those stargazing moments. But the heavens are splendid with thousands of those
points of light. Today, as Alpha Delta Kappa sisters, we
are attuned to the stars as just small segments of our
universe of promise. In the 1999-2001 International
theme: “21st Century: Universe of Promise,” the logo
depicts five small stars encompassed in orbits reaching
from the large five pointed star to circulate around the
Alpha Delta Kappa triangle. The delicate orbits carry the
five ideals that will lead Alpha Delta Kappa into the new
millennium. We salute our Founders today through those
five ideals.
Our Founders were women of vision whose wishes to create Alpha Delta Kappa have begun as
wishes on stars filled with hope for our future. The first candle represents the first star in our
universe of promise – the universe of awareness of human needs and resources. Our Founder,
Agnes Shipman Robertson, became aware through her frequent travels as an educator that there
was a need for an organization to facilitate teachers coming together and getting to know each
other personally and socially. She was determined to make others aware of good teachers
through recognition. We honor Agnes as an inspiration to everyone demonstrating her leader-
ship as the guiding star of Alpha Delta Kappa.
This second candle lights the orbit called the universe of knowledge for a better understanding
of our multi-diverse world. Marie Neal, our second Founder, also wished upon a star for a
fraternal organization that could create a strong bond between women – an idea so important to
the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. Her role in the founding and management, indeed, helps us
connect our multi-diverse world. We light this candle to honor Marie as our leader of unity
holding together this vast galaxy known as Alpha Delta Kappa.
Marion Southall, our third Founder, served as the first National Vice-President and Chairman
of the Executive Board in the early years. We light this third candle in her honor. Her star
twinkles in the universe of heritage, learning and remembering why we are here. Every time
we sing "The Lamp Of Alpha Delta Kappa," which was composed by her children, her spirit
shines like the North Star leading the way for our heritage. This candle salutes Marion and
helps us to remember the burning glow from the lamp of knowledge.
Alpha Delta Kappa soared in the early years because of Hattie Poppino, our fourth Founder,
who was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. Her
wish could easily have been for the universe of communication in this network. Just as our own
star, the sun, is constantly shining, the need for never-ending communication lights the path of
our sorority. this faithful beam extends through the different levels of Alpha Delta Kappa –
International, state/provincial/national, district, chapter, and individual member. We honor
Hattie as the steadfast organizer to chart our future as members of Alpha Delta Kappa by
lighting the fourth candle.
One candle is left, standing single in this universe, yet not alone. The warm glow of sisterhood,
which we hold so dear in our sorority, fills our hearts today as we reflect on our past and
expect greatness in our future.
"Twinkle, twinkle little star.

How I wonder what you are.
Up above the world so high,
Like a diamond in the sky."
One little light, one little star, one little sister at a time – we are the sisterhood of Alpha Delta
Kappa. We light this last candle as sisters because we are designing the future together. Let us
cherish and honor our Founders always.
Even as the sun rises and the stars disappear from the daytime sky, we realize those same stars
in our universe are there waiting to present themselves every night again, as constant reminders
of our "Universe of Promise." Your loyal sisters are there waiting to reappear in the sisterhood
of Alpha Delta Kappa in the same way. Because of you, my sisters, and the vision of our
Founders, all of our wishes on stars have come true. This candle glows with the love of the
"special sisterhood that we hold so dear.
And so, arm-in-arm, hand-in-hand, heart-to-heart, we embrace the “21st Century: Universe of
Promise.”
Please rise and sing the Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa as the closing of this ceremony.
A Tea Party
(A Founders’ Day Ceremony)
2010
• For years and years, across many cultures, a cup of tea has held special meaning. An
ancient Chinese proverb states,
“Better to be deprived of food for three days, than tea for one.”
• Craig Mortenson, in his book Three Cups of Tea, explains the importance of tea in
Pakistan and Afghanistan:
“Here we drink three cups of tea to do business; the first you are a stranger,
the second you become a friend, and the third you join our family and for our
family we are prepared to do anything…”
• The British love of tea takes us back to the 1600s as tea trade began. Starting first with
the upper class, the love of tea and a specific “tea time” spread quickly to all classes
and to this day takes many forms.
• In our society when we get together for a meeting, a study group or a planning session,
a cup of tea or coffee is often part of the gathering. It just seems like the thing to do.
• In 1947, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marian Southhall, Marie Neal and Hattie Poppino
used “teas” as ways of gathering women educators to promote closer professional
ties. They developed groups called chapters to promote commitment to educational
excellence, personal and professional growth and collectively channeled their energies
toward the good of schools, communities, the teaching profession and the world.
• Thus, Alpha Delta Kappa began and today we celebrate our chapter as well as those in
all fifty states, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Australia and Puerto Rico.
• We celebrate our members and the myriad of contributions to education in the

classroom and out.
• We celebrate outstanding Altruism in many, many ways especially our contributions

over the years to St. Jude’s Hospital and Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
• We celebrate our Scholarships for students from other cultures as well as our own
members.
• We celebrate our Foundation, which will carry these programs and others into the
future.
• We celebrate World Understanding learning as we go about other ways of life,
education and making the world a better place.
• We celebrate our Founders who had the vision to recognize and support women
educators.
• Join us now as we salute these four women. Whether it be with a cup of tea, a mug
of coffee, a bottle of water or a Coke. We salute them. May their vision be instilled
in us as we look forward to Alpha Delta Kappa’s future in our chapter, state, province
or nation, region and on the international level. Help all of us to take advantage of the
opportunities and the friendships which membership in Alpha Delta Kappa brings each
one of us.
• Let us share this fellowship with each other as we sing “The Lamp of Alpha Delta
Kappa.”
Submitted by
Jan Page
Illinois Upsilon
Founders’ Day Celebration Five people stand up in front of
group. Speakers to one side and
(First Reader) other three to other side.
We come to this banquet in celebration of our Diamond Jubilee, the 60th
anniversary of the founding of Alpha Delta Kappa. Diamond comes from X X
the Greek word, adamas, meaning unconquerable and enduring, a perfect X X
description of our Founders and their dream. When we pledged ourselves X
as sisters in this sorority, we became a part of their dream, founded on Blue – reader Red – logo
friendship and love. We have found in our association not only love and demonstrator
friendship, but also opportunities to serve as a source of strength,
inspiration, and conviction to our sisters, students and communities. When the reader refers to the
“new logo,” one of the three
(Second Reader) holds up the large board showing
Our Founders, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marion Southall, Marie Neal the outline of the logo with the
and Hattie Poppino, saw their dream come alive in August of 1947. flowers in the middle.
Everyone felt that all was well in the world; World War II had ended and
peace and prosperity prevailed. This organization was created in those When the reader says “vision,”
peaceful times to give recognition to the individual teacher as well as to one of the three puts the word on
gain recognition for the entire teaching profession. Even though times the board in the correct place.
have changed, our new logo shows that we still value the individual
teachers and their teaching profession. When the reader says “actions,”
one of the three puts the word
(First Reader) “action” on the board in the
We honor our Founders for their vision of an organization that would correct place.
recognize and support teachers in their individual pursuits of personal and
professional excellence. Their vision created an organization where When the reader says
women can find strength and inspiration not just from other “teachers,” “innovative,” one of the three
but from sisters who share their same desire for excellence. puts the word “innovation” in
the correct place.
(Second Reader)
It is because of our Founder’s actions that we are members of an Now “Alpha Delta Kappa” is
organization which promotes the highest standards of excellence in put on the board in the correct
education. Their nurturing spirits, a desire to serve others, have produced place before the reader says the
excellence in altruism as well. In the biennium, 2005 – 2007, AΔK last paragraph.
contributed over eleven million dollars to charities and scholarships and
nearly two million hours of service in our communities. Actions can —Colorado Alpha Gamma
speak louder than words. Chapter
(First Reader)
These four women were innovative and unconquerable in their efforts to
create Alpha Delta Kappa. Now it is our turn to be innovative and create
ways to support and inspire our sisters, our students and our communities
toward excellence in education and life.
(Second Reader)
We are the diamonds of this celebration. We must endure in our pursuit
of excellence. It is up to each of us to be unconquerable and stand up for
what we know to be right and just.
Vision, Action, Innovation
2007 Delaware Founders’ Day Program
Leader: Vision, Action, Innovation Those three words on the 2007-2009 International
Logo were written by Ann Hudson, our International President, but would have been just as
appropriate sixty years ago when Alpha Delta Kappa was incorporated. In 1947 the VISION of 4
women was put into ACTION, and what they created was quite an INNOVATION.
At that time outstanding women educators were rarely recognized for their
accomplishments; they could not ‘network’ with other professionals to develop excellence in
education; and world understanding was a new post war concept in the United States. Women
were expected to do altruistic projects, and they enjoyed fellowship with their friends, but not
within an honorary organization like we have today.
To us in the twenty-first century, the four women who founded Alpha Delta Kappa may
look very prim and proper in their photographs, but their ideas were fresh and new; their energy
was relentless, and their enthusiasm for their dream was enormous. They were upwardly mobile;
they developed a data base of outstanding educators- the likes of which had not been seen before,
and they did it all in an era when women were rarely able to be on the cutting edge of anything.
Reader 1: Agnes Shipman Robertson, the first Grand President of Alpha Delta Kappa, was
the visionary, whose idea for a sorority took 25 years to be accomplished. She was a music
teacher and an assistant principal, and later on she worked for an educational book company. She
traveled around the country with her AΔK materials in the trunk of her car, meeting teachers in
all corners of the USA and installing chapters as she went. Her friends said she was ‘feisty,
charming, gracious, and would not take NO for an answer’. Aren’t we lucky today that she
wouldn’t?
Reader 2: Marie Neal, whose field was high school history and economics, was the first
Executive Secretary-Treasurer of Alpha Delta Kappa. She met with teachers during her travels
with her husband, who worked closely with the public schools. Her management skills forged the
beginnings of our sorority.
Reader 3: Marion Southall was the first Vice President and head of the Executive Board of
Alpha Delta Kappa. Marion’s family was also very involved in the sorority. Her husband, an
attorney, acted as general counsel to Alpha Delta Kappa, and her children, Carolyn and Richard,
composed our song, “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.”
Reader 4: Hattie Poppino was a teacher and school librarian for many years in Kansas. She
was a member of the first Executive Board of Alpha Delta Kappa, and her classroom experience
was instrumental in formulating the policies and aspirations of our sorority.
Leader: Today, as we honor these four women, we look back at their VISIONS; we
applaud their ACTIONS, and we are truly blessed by their INNOVATIONS for women
educators. Now let’s all look ahead. What will we see for Alpha Delta Kappa in the next 5-10-
20-60 years? Will our visions and actions bring about innovations to enrich the lives of women
educators of the future? If we are true to our principles of “all for one and one for all” we will.
Submitted by Peggy Keay, Delaware State President-Elect

Founders’ Day Ceremony, “Teachers and Apples”
Washington Beta Chapter
September 25, 2004
written by Ginny Wortman
Sister #1
Alpha Delta Kappa’s Founders’ Day is observed each year in the fall throughout our International
Sorority. Founders’ Day Ceremonies may be traditional or creative, and ours is a little of both. It
combines Alpha Delta Kappa history with the symbolic relation of Teachers and Apples.
Fifty-seven years ago in the state of Missouri, four women, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie
Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie Poppino saw the need for and created an organization which
recognized and supported the professional efforts of outstanding women educators. These
women of vision created the organization known as Alpha Delta Kappa which united the women
members through common goals, educational excellence, altruism, and worldwide understanding.
I place 4 apples into our fruit basket representing the vision of our 4 Alpha Delta Kappa founders.
Sister #2
Fifty-one years ago Washington State chartered its first three chapters: Alpha Chapter in
Spokane, our own Beta Chapter in Seattle, and Gamma Chapter also in Seattle. All three of these
chapters have already celebrated their Golden Anniversaries with special celebrations and
remembrances.
I place 3 apples into the basket representing the 3 Washington State Golden Chapters.
I also place 1 apple into the basket representing the dedication of all charter members of
Washington State’s Golden Chapters, as we honor our own charter member, Marjory Devers.
Sister #3
The symbol of Washington State and teachers is the “apple”. Washington State has many
varieties of apples: Braeburn, Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith, Jonagold, Pink Lady, Cameo, Golden
Delicious, and the ever popular and well known Red Delicious.
It has been said that “an Apple a day keeps the doctor away”. Apples keep us healthy, providing
benefits of: lowering blood cholesterol; improving digestions; reducing the risk of stroke/heart
attack, lung/colon/and prostrate cancer, type II diabetes and asthma; as well as providing fiber
aiding with weight loss, while also being a delicious snack.
While apples help to give us healthy bodies, teachers help to educate us with invaluable
information for our future lives. Teachers are friends, mentors, leaders, educators, instructors,
and parental substitutes. Both apples and teachers have their own individual characteristics and
qualities which are enriching and nourishing, and mellow and mild, tart and tangy, crisp and firm,
sweet and juicy, classy and unique, plus versatile and all-purpose!
I place 2 apples into the basket representing all the delicious varieties of Washington State apples
and for the talented, valuable, and dedicated teachers we are known for!
Sister #4
This symbolic basket of apples could be eaten as snacks, combined in salads, cooked, or baked
into the ever popular Apple Pie. I suggest you use them in a special Alpha Delta Kappa recipe.
Combine the apples with…..

2 cups of friendly words
2 level cups of understanding
4 heaping teaspoons of time and patience
A pinch of warm personality
A dash of humor
Cook together on the front burner, but keep the temperature low. Season to taste with the
spice of life. Serve in individual molds with encouragement, inspiration, and instruction. Share
generously with others always upholding the personal, professional, and educational standards of
Alpha Delta Kappa.
Founders’ Day Program 2009
International Theme: Vision, Action, Innovation

Southeast Region Theme: Honor, Provide, Nurture
Kentucky Theme: WINGS for Tomorrow
Women Educators Involved in Nurturing, Giving, and Supporting
Our founders, Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and
Hattie Poppino were 4 educators who had VISION. That vision led to
ACTION and INNOVATIVE ideas to promote a closer professionalism
among outstanding women Educators.
They knew that women needed a BOND and they wanted to HONOR
women educators in a special way, and give them opportunities for personal
and professional growth.
They were the NUTURERS, giving of their time and talents to encourage
teachers to come together to start Alpha Delta Kappa chapters all over the
country.
Agnes Shipman Robertson was the main nurturer and promoter. Opal
Lunsford, former Executive Administrator told of Agnes driving across the
country to facilitate the birth of the organization. “Agnes was 24 hours a
day, eight days a week, Alpha Delta Kappa,” she said.
Agnes “always had visions,” Opal said. “Every night she would come up
with something new. She would come back from trips loaded with new
ideas. She would pass these ideas to staff to implement so that she could
then go on to other things. She was a great thinker as she drove. She
thought of ways to work things, ways to grow.
Marie Neal was the supporter and provided a strong bond with Agnes.
They were very good friends. Opal said.” Marie kept the records and
handled the money in her office at home.” She used her time and talents to
help manage the organization, and nurture its growth. She became the
executive secretary-treasurer of ADK. Marie and her husband Tom would
often go with Agnes to install chapters. Opal recalls, “Agnes carried the
initiation material in the trunk of her car. They would take cookies and get
punch for the initiation ceremonies.”
Marion Southall was interested in that bond for educators and she assisted
Marie in her role. She used her talents and abilities to provide leadership
and become the first National Vice-President and head of the Executive
Board. The official song” The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa” was composed
by Carolyn and Richard Southall, children of Marion. Richard also wrote
the music for “There is a Sorority in Our Town” as well.
Hattie Poppino taught commerce and library at Garnett and Chanute, then
became a librarian in Kansas City. She was a member of several professional
organizations and with her vision and teaching experience was instrumental
in formulating the policies and aspirations of Alpha Delta Kappa. She was a
great leader and supporter serving on the first Executive Board.
These 4 women were the WINGS for Tomorrow. They were like the life
cycle of the butterfly. They were like the embryo developing a new idea, a
new organization. They were like the caterpillar or larva in its growing
stage as they started new chapters to grow the organization. Then like the
pupa looking for a final nesting place, their home became Kansas City,
Missouri. And from there the butterfly took flight and on August 13, 1947,
our four founders, Agnes Shipman, Marie Neal, Marion Southall, and Hattie
Poppino signed the incorporation agreement and Alpha Delta Kappa,
honorary fraternal organization for women educators, took flight. It has
grown into more than 1400 chapters in every state in the U.S. and also
around the world, and has more than 40,000 members. Since 1947, more
than 125,000 women educators have been initiated into ADK.
We too, have a special bond as women educators and like our Founders,
provide Vision, Action and Innovation in our schools and community. We
are the WINGS of Tomorrow: Women Educators Involved in Nurturing,
Giving and Supporting as we grow personally and professionally in our
Kappa Chapter in Owensboro, Ky.
This Founder’s Day program was developed from the History of our
Founders on the Alpha Delta Kappa Website. Excerpts and quotes were
taken from that context. This program was written by Peggy Stemle, Kappa
Chapter, Owensboro, Kentucky.

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FOUNDERS’ DAY CEREMONY

Today we come together to remember our Founders and to

(Opening prayer, thought or meditation)

Prayer of the Woods

Agnes Shipman Robertson

(Closing prayer, thought or meditation)

We light the first candle for HERITAGE.

We light the second candle for EXCELLENCE.

The qualifications for membership in AK are characteristic of excellence. We are

We light the third candle for ALTRUISM.

We create the heart of tomorrow through giving to worthwhile community-based

We light the fourth candle for RECOGNITION.

Alpha Delta Kappa abounds with opportunities for recognizing commitment to

We light the fifth candle for TEACHING.

If there is such a thing as a philosophy of life, I would recommend to anyone to keep

REACH OUT AND TOUCH A CHILD’S HEART.

— by Sandra Walker, Minnesota Chi Chapter

READER 6: (Chaplain if possible)

Ellas percibieron la necesidad, de no solamente ofrecer a la clase magisterial una organización

En este bienio hemos iniciado 54 neófitas y reinstalado 13 sororitas. Instalamos un nuevo

We are the builders, who built today,

We also are dreamers today, who dream

Someone must master because we believe

- Maryellis Wheaton, 1987, Washington Eta Chapter

We are here tonight to recognize four remarkable and outstanding

Please join in singing THE LAMP OF ALPHA DELTA KAPPA.

Submitted by Margaret Lutz, Membership Chairman

First, the spark comes from the match (or lighter).

Fuel: membership development

We salute our Founders by lighting a candle for each one today.

(Closing prayer, thought or meditation)

Let us stand and sing “The Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa.”

World War II ends 1945

Alpha Delta Kappa issued a charter by the state of Missouri 1947

Illinois ADK chartered 1950

“Lamp of Alpha Delta Kappa” written/copyrighted 1951

Korean War ends 1953

Upsilon Chapter chartered 1954

First National ADK Convention 1955 Chicago

International Teacher Education Scholarships Established/Awarded 1963

JFK assassinated 1963

Headquarters constructed in Kansas City, MO 1965

Beta Eta Chapter chartered 1971

Sears Tower Constructed 1974

ADK Week Established 1975

St Jude’s Hospital-first International Altruistic Project 1981

Bears win the Super Bowl 1986

Agnes Shipman Robertson died 1987

ADK Month established 1991

ADK celebrated its 50th anniversary 1997

ADK web site went online 1997

Handshake/password made optional 2000

World Trade Center Falls 2001

(Setting: Podium to side of stage. Single chair in center of stage.)

(Parts: Leader, Pledge, Seven Gift Sisters)

PLEDGE: (very enthusiastically) I am an outstanding, extremely-eager-to-please, overly

P: (interrupting) Kansas City, Missouri!

P: (with great deliberation) Agnes, Hattie, Marion and Marie.

P: (enthusiasm continues undaunted) “(name of current International President)”!

L: (almost to the breaking point) Yes, yes, yes. _______________________. Of course,

P: (Jumps up and shouts) Olive green and golden yellow!

GIFT 2: I bring you the Gift of Participation and Leadership.

GIFT 3: I bring you the Gift of World Understanding.

GIFT 4: I bring you the Gift of Altruism.