Dear Theta Phi Alpha’s,
DEIA - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Access. This important acronym that was once unknown to me now holds a significant place in how I live my life and in the advancement and relevance of Theta Phi Alpha into the future. In 2020, Theta Phi Alpha created a DEIA Task Force to address equality in racial, religious, cultural, gender, socioeconomic, ability, and sexual diversity to ensure respectful, equitable, and dignified treatment of all members and potential new members. This task force provided the framework for the Fraternity to examine our governing documents, policies and procedures, and the experience we deliver to our members. While much work has been done, this work will only be complete if we work to be an organization where all our members feel included, valued, and seen.
Theta Phi Alpha’s DEIA Standing Committee was established in 2021 as a recommendation of the DEIA Task Force. This committee comprises 13 members, including alumnae, a collegian, 2 Grand Council Champions, and a staff member. The purpose of this committee is to ensure that Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access remain a focus of Theta Phi Alpha for years to come.
Did you hear the news? In January, an announcement was made that the location of our 2026 National Convention will be in Pittsburgh, PA. Through the convention change management process, we identified that it was beneficial to our members to announce future convention sites as soon as the location was secured. I attended my first convention in 1988 as a collegian as the delegate for the Alpha Pi chapter. Convention provided an opportunity to learn more about Theta Phi Alpha and meet members from different chapters. Enjoy my pictures from past conventions. Do you have a picture to share from a convention you attended? Please submit it through our Photo and Video Submission form.
February is Black History Month. Please join me in celebrating our Black members who make a difference in Theta Phi Alpha daily. Black History Month is an opportunity to continue learning about our Black members' history and culture, celebrate our differences, and recognize how diversity enhances our membership experience as Theta Phi Alphas.
Yitbos,
Kristin Henkenius
National President