Phoenix Award for Outstanding Chapter Growth Recipients & Chapter Stories

Phoenix Award for Outstanding Chapter Growth and Chapter Stories

Discover the KDP chapters that have taken their chapter to the next level. The Phoenix Award for Outstanding Chapter Growth recognizes groups who've significantly improved their chapter management and programming. These chapters didn't just talk about change—they made it happen. From fresh event ideas to smarter operations, these recipients have set new standards for what a KDP chapter can achieve. Discover the innovative strategies that put these chapters on the map that might inspire your own!

 

Learn More and Apply to the Phoenix Award for Outstanding Chapter Growth

 

Congratulations to our 2024 Phoenix Award for Outstanding Chapter Growth recipients!

 

Alpha Zeta Alpha Chapter

Averett University

Talk about a phoenix rising from the ashes! The Alpha Zeta Alpha Chapter at Averett University has staged an epic comeback that’ll make you believe in the power of determination and teamwork.

From Zero to Hero

Imagine this: Fall 2023 rolls around, and the chapter finds itself with zero members. Yep, you read that right. But did they throw in the towel? No way! Instead, they kicked off a rejuvenation plan that would make even the most ambitious startup jealous.

Explosive Growth

In just one academic year, Alpha Zeta Alpha:

  • Recruited and inducted 12 new members
  • Established a rock-solid leadership team of 4 officers
  • Sparked interest in 6 more potential members

Events That Pack a Punch

These go-getters didn’t just rebuild their numbers; they created a buzzing hive of activity:

  • Hosted a week-long “Sweets Week” fundraiser that had the whole campus craving more
  • Spread joy with their “Angel Tree Initiative,” bringing smiles to local children
  • Crafted inspiring care packages for student teachers (because who doesn’t need a pick-me-up during their teaching practice?)
  • Launched a campus-wide “Teacher Appreciation Initiative” that had students flooding prior educators with gratitude

Professional Development with Pizzazz

Alpha Zeta Alpha didn’t just focus on fun; they got down to business too:

  • Organized a killer professional development workshop on job searches, resumes, and interview skills
  • Celebrated members’ successes with two grand “Celebration of Success” events

Community Impact That Matters

These future educators showed they’ve got hearts of gold:

  • Honored a beloved faculty member with a touching memorial presentation
  • Used creative fundraisers like a “Friendship Bracelet” sale and “Pitching Contest” to fuel their service projects

The Secret Sauce?

What made this incredible turnaround possible? A perfect blend of:

  • Passionate student leadership
  • Unwavering support from advisors
  • A commitment to making every event both meaningful and fun

Alpha Zeta Alpha has shown that with vision, hard work, and a sprinkle of creativity, any chapter can transform itself into a powerhouse of impact and engagement. Who’s ready to follow in their footsteps and write their own comeback story?

Lynchburg

Eta Tau Chapter

Lynchburg University

The Eta Tau Chapter at the University of Lynchburg has risen from the ashes like a true phoenix! In just one academic year, this once-dormant chapter transformed into a vibrant hub of activity for future educators.

Under the leadership of new faculty advisors and an energetic student officer board, Eta Tau went from having only 5 members to boasting 22 active participants. They didn’t just grow in numbers—they erupted with enthusiasm and innovation!

The chapter launched a full rebrand, complete with custom t-shirts and a social media presence that keeps members connected and engaged. They’ve taken over the College of Education’s TV screens with “Meet Your Officer” spotlights and enthusiastically shared the KDP message in classrooms across campus.

But it’s not all about looking good—Eta Tau is doing good too! They’ve embraced fundraising with creative flair, from supporting a major literacy event with renowned author Jan Brett to selling handmade jewelry at a local rodeo. These efforts raised over $600 to support local schools and students in need.

The chapter is also focusing on professional development, hosting events like “Sips with Student Teachers” to help ease anxieties about entering the field. They’re not just preparing teachers; they’re building a community of educators ready to make a difference.

With plans to adopt a local elementary school, expand their reach across campus, and continue growing their impactful programs, Eta Tau is setting the bar high for what a KDP chapter can achieve. They’ve proven that with passion, creativity, and teamwork, any chapter can rise to new heights!

WV State

Lambda Zeta Chapter

West Virginia State University

Talk about a comeback story! The Lambda Zeta Chapter at West Virginia State University has truly embodied the spirit of the Phoenix, rising from near extinction to become a vibrant, student-centered powerhouse in just one semester.

Facing a “permanent hiatus” in early 2024, this determined group of future educators refused to let their chapter fade away. With fresh leadership and a renewed sense of purpose, Lambda Zeta members rolled up their sleeves and got to work. They modernized operations, created interactive meetings, and launched creative initiatives like their annual chapter periodical.

The results? Membership skyrocketed, engagement soared, and the chapter’s impact on campus multiplied. From hosting a wildly successful hot dog fundraiser (complete with mouthwatering Appalachian-style slaw dogs!) to supporting their local community at the Salvation Army, Lambda Zeta proved that when passionate students come together, anything is possible.

Some key highlights of their transformation:

  • Membership grew from just 3 active members to over 20 in one semester.
  • Launched new committees to give every member a sense of purpose.
  • Created a Google Classroom to enhance communication and collaboration.
  • Established an annual publication to connect with alumni and celebrate chapter history.
  • Partnered with local schools to bring STEM education to middle schoolers.

The Lambda Zeta chapter’s journey shows that with dedication, teamwork, and a little creativity, any KDP chapter can reinvent itself and make a lasting impact on campus and beyond. Way to go, Lambda Zeta—you’re an inspiration to KDP chapters everywhere!