Spoken from the podium at National Convention.

Sisters are different flowers from the same garden.

I am so excited to be your next National President. This journey on National Council has been such a wonderful gift and I am grateful to all those sisters who helped me get here! Brenda Bonner asked me to be the West Central District Officer in 2016 and I am so glad that I accepted her offer. This has truly been a blessing and something of which I am enormously proud!

I want to thank my family, especially my husband, Steve, for supporting me all these years. I would like to introduce them to you before I go on……my son Christopher and his wife Allison, my son Matthew, and his wife Kelly, and of course my husband Steve. We also have Cooper, our Labradoodle, who some of you already know, and Stevie and Henry, our wonderful grandchildren.

In 1897, Psi Iota Xi was founded by the joining together of women to make a difference in the lives of individuals one community at a time. The original intent was to bring diverse cultural experiences to their communities by introducing music and art to these towns with the funds that the women raised. As we grew, literature and literacy became an added focus. 1938 marked the beginning of Psi Iota Xi’s dedication to the field for which we have become nationally known – speech pathology and audiology.

Psi Iota Xi is a network of friends dedicated to helping others with time, money, and love, and meeting the needs of our communities whether cultural, educational, social, or financial. Every chapter is different since every community’s needs are different. But what binds all these chapters together is a sisterhood dedicated to furthering the principles of Psi Iota Xi.

As every chapter is different, so is every sister within each chapter. We have a beautiful array of personalities, each with our own unique gifts to give. This is what makes us so special, our differences!

Sisters are like a bouquet of different flowers, each unique and beautiful in their own way. They may come from the same garden, but their individuality shines through, making them truly special. This relationship we have with our Psi Ote sisters is unlike any other. Just like flowers in a garden, sisters bring color and vibrancy into our lives. Each sister adds her own unique qualities to the chapter dynamic – one might be bold and outspoken while another is gentle and nurturing. Together, they create a harmonious blend that enriches the lives of others in countless ways!

The challenge to chapters is defining what unique quality each sister brings to the group. Women do not usually talk about their accomplishments and gifts. All those hidden qualities stay hidden. To be a successful chapter, those qualities must be unearthed and utilized for the betterment of the group, to help each chapter decide what their garden looks like going forward.

When I was a District Officer, I loved visiting chapters! I learned something new with each visit. Every chapter is different, every sister is different, but I saw wonderful things each time. Every chapter has its own magic that makes it click! Find out what that is and use it to foster sisterhood. Is it socializing together? Is it meeting in people’s homes? Or is it playing a little game at the end of each meeting? One chapter I know of visits businesses in their community before meetings to have a little fun and get to know the business owners in their town. Every chapter does it a little differently!

Another chapter had adopted a new way to get to know their sisters. Each meeting featured a “Spotlight On” time. A member of the chapter was selected to talk about themselves and their employment or education at each meeting. Not only did this highlight unique qualities in the membership that the chapter could use but also helped the sisters get to know each other better! My chapter has “Happy Bucks” time at the end of every meeting. Really, it is “tell us what important things are going on in your lives” time. It really helps to foster sisterhood! Sisters are often each other’s biggest cheerleaders. They celebrate one another’s achievements and milestones with genuine enthusiasm! Capture that enthusiasm so that we may continue to enrich the lives of others in our communities.

It is not only important to connect with the sisters in your own chapter but also to make connections with other chapters. The uniqueness of every chapter makes them important to the success of your own chapter. They have great ideas, and your chapter has great ideas; share them! You can also share resources. One way to share resources is by combining with another chapter or two on a fundraiser or project. Sometimes your chapter has the members but not the market in your community for something you would really like to do. Maybe your chapter has done a community fundraiser or event forever but just do not have the energy to do it alone anymore. You may need a fresh perspective and extra help. Pair with another chapter and make the goal easier to accomplish. And the perfect place to share your ideas and collaborate with other chapters is right here, at National Convention! This is the perfect setting to connect with chapters who want the same things as yours, service to your communities.

Please remember that you are an important part of your chapter, and your chapters are an extremely critical part of this organization! The difference between us is what makes us so valuable to the whole group and to the causes that we champion. Embrace all our unique qualities with passion!

Sisters really are different flowers from the same garden – connected by love, shared experiences, and unwavering support. Sisters truly exemplify the beauty of sisterhood through their unique connection that blossoms like flowers from the same garden. Please nourish the Psi Iota Xi Garden with your service and love!

Taffy Day

National President

Omega - Lebanon, IN

Spoken from the podium at the 2025 National Convention.

Introduction of Taffy Day, 2025-26 National President

It’s an absolute treat to introduce you to someone who’s not just a sister, but also one of my closest friends—someone whose kindness, wisdom, and dedication have touched the lives of so many around her.

Today, I’m thrilled to introduce to you, the one and only, Taffy Day!

Taffy’s journey began in Columbus, Ohio (yep, she’s a Buckeye!), but she didn’t stay put for long. After bouncing around a few cities, she landed in Lebanon, where she graduated high school. From there, she headed to Purdue University, where she tackled a Business degree in Accounting and Finance. But Taffy didn’t stop there—after college, she dove headfirst into the sales world, breaking barriers in a field that was very much dominated by men.

In 1980, Taffy became part of the Omega Chapter of Psi Iota Xi—just like her mom! Her mom’s friend invited them both to join, and at the time, Taffy’s future sister-in-law, Libby Lewis, was the chapter president. It was at the Omega chapter’s Christmas party that Libby decided to play matchmaker and asked Taffy if she’d go on a date with her brother, Steve—who just happened to be a year ahead of Taffy in high school. They didn’t know each other all that well, so yes, it was pretty much a blind date!

Soon after, Taffy landed a job with Uniroyal and moved to St. Louis, which caused her to take a little break from the chapter. But when she moved back to Indiana in 1982, she rejoined Psi Iota Xi and kept things going with Steve. By 1984, they were married, and in 1988, their son Christopher came along. Then, in 1992, they welcomed their second son, Matthew. With a growing family and a job that had her traveling a lot, Taffy once again stepped back from her chapter duties—but she was all in on mom life, volunteering for every school field trip, and loving every second of it.

But Taffy’s community spirit didn’t stop there. In 1999, she took on the role of Registrar for the local soccer club, a position she held for an impressive twelve years, well after her sons had finished playing. Her fondest memories from those years came from working with families and supporting a sport that her boys adored.

When Matthew headed off to college, Taffy found herself wanting something more, so she returned to her Psi Iota Xi sisters. And let’s just say, that decision was a game-changer. Over the years, she’s had the privilege of being part of an incredible sisterhood, both in and outside of her chapter.

Taffy served as the president of her chapter for three years, and though it was challenging at times, she found it to be deeply rewarding. It was during her third year as president that she met Susie Lewis, Beth Keeney, and Brenda Bonner—three women who would go on to become not just mentors, but lifelong friends. In 2015, Brenda asked Taffy to take on the role of West Central District Officer, which meant juggling both that and her work on the Boone County Senior Services Foundation Board. With a little convincing from her friends, Taffy said yes—and the rest is history!

Her time on the National Council has been a transformative experience, allowing Taffy to form lifelong friendships and expand her circle of connection. Through all of this, she’s shown her children the power of giving back and the importance of living a well-rounded, purposeful life.

Now, when you think of Taffy, a few words come to mind: sensible, loyal, classy and extremely competent. She’s the kind of person who’ll lend a hand at the drop of a hat, whether it’s helping another chapter or cracking up while shopping for Bingo purses to and from meetings. And above all, she’s deeply passionate about Psi Iota Xi and truly lives out the meaning of giving back.

I can personally attest to Taffy’s unwavering support. She’s been my rock—someone I turn to for advice, laughter, and guidance. Honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am today without her friendship.

So, with great pride and excitement, I’m beyond honored to introduce to you, your 2025-2026 Psi Iota Xi National President… the one, the only, Taffy Day!

Sandie Carlson

National Vice President

Theta Kappa, Edon, OH

The following is an excerpt from the speech given by National Conductress, Valerie Helms-Mejia, at the 2025 National Convention. Read Valerie's speech in its entirety here.

Introduction of the 2025 Psi Ote of the Year Recipient

I am Valerie Helms – Mejia. I have had the pleasure of serving as your National Conductress for a second year. The best part of this is that I get to announce another Psi Ote of the Year…my favorite part of the office!

I would now like to read the beautiful nomination letter sent in for our 2025 POOTY winner. Please note that I am reading you the original letter not the blacked-out version the committee was give

"Why Should this sister be considered for National Psi Iota of the Year:

It is our hope that every chapter would have a member like the sister that we have nominated for the Psi Ote of the Year, but we know she is one in a million.  It is difficult to put into words how much our nominee touches the lives of our members, the patrons of our projects, and members of our community. She is a member who has truly dedicated herself to the work of Psi Iota Xi.

Over the past year, her dedication and initiative have led to significant advancements for our chapter. She has a remarkable ability to turn our ideas into reality, exemplified by her leadership in our new philanthropic project, Bingo. In the last twelve months, she successfully qualified our chapter with the state gaming commission and chaired three Bingo events, collectively raising nearly $25,000.

Beyond Bingo, she teamed up with another member to revitalize a struggling initiative, our Community Calendar project.

Our nominee has significantly contributed to our chapter’s successes in other ways as well, by securing $4,500 in grants through Walmart Spark Good Giving for our literacy projects: Little Free Libraries and I Like Me Books.

The most pivotal contribution she made to our chapter this year was guiding us in envisioning our future. With her astute insights and strategic foresight, she helped us chart a course for where we aspire to be a decade from now. Her efforts in fostering a vision not only established a long-term goal but also instilled a sense of direction and purpose among the members.

The Psi Ote of the Year award is a prestigious honor that recognizes outstanding members who have made significant contributions to their communities and to Psi Iota Xi. Our sister is a prime example of such excellence. Her dedication, impactful actions, and unwavering support make her the ideal candidate for this honor."

It is my honor and privilege to present to you the 2025 Psi Ote of the Year Andrea Niedenthal from the Zeta Tau Chapter in Milroy, Indiana!

Valerie Helms-Mejia

National Project Chair

Alpha, Muncie, IN

The following is an excerpt from the speech given by National Conductress, Valerie Helms-Mejia, at the 2025 National Convention. Read Valerie's speech in its entirety here.

Introduction of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Recipient

We have the honor of recognizing not one but two outstanding sisters this year! If you have ever served on this committee, you know how difficult it is to choose just one winner. This year we decided to spice things up a bit and add another award category…. the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Lifetime Achievement Award goes to sister who has been in our organization for at least 20 years and continues to go above and beyond for her chapter, her community, and our organization year after year!

We had seventeen chapters submit a nomination for our Lifetime Achievement Award. A big thank you to those chapters for supporting our new award!

I will now read this heart felt original nomination letter.

When you are part of an organization like Psi Iota Xi—where the mission to promote art, literature, music, and speech and hearing touches so many lives—you learn that success is rooted in people. And often, if you look closely at a chapter’s accomplishments, you’ll find one individual whose steadfast presence, both behind the scenes and out front, ensures the work gets done.

For our chapter, that person is this nominee.

This member doesn’t just serve—she lives and breathes Psi Iota Xi. Her decades of unwavering commitment have helped shape the very culture of our chapter. She has consistently shown up, leaned in, lifted others, and moved things forward—always with humility and a heart full of service. After earning National Honorary Conferred status and serving as National President, she chose to remain actively involved at every level.

She once said:

“I would like to think I have done my share for Psi Iota Xi. I know there are other Sisters who have done as much—maybe some have not done it as long as I have. After being National President and receiving Honorary Conferred status, I chose to stay active. I still have the love of what we do, and the health and desire to continue.”

This is the spirit that defines her. Her presence at conventions over the years has created countless fond memories. We always knew she would be deeply involved, leading by example and embodying the mission and values of Psi Iota Xi. Her energy, her passion, and her dedication have always been a driving force in making Psi Iota Xi well respected—not just in our chapter, but across the entire organization.

Her service also extends well beyond our organization. She has taught Sunday School for 14 years, led Vacation Bible School, served on church leadership teams, and even sat on the Hendricks Community Foundation Board. She’s also a dedicated volunteer with Sheltering Wings, supporting women and children affected by domestic abuse. Whether she’s shopping for gifts, coordinating drop-offs, or simply reaching out with compassion, her devotion to helping others is remarkable.

She embodies the true spirit of Psi Iota Xi—her servant heart, unwavering dedication, and inspiring leadership have left an immeasurable impact on our chapter and beyond. She leads with kindness, lifts others with her generosity, and sets a standard of excellence that we all strive to follow. Her legacy is one of compassion, commitment, and community—making her truly deserving of this lifetime honor.

She is an inspiration to all those around her.

It is with deep admiration and sincere gratitude that our chapter submits this nomination for your consideration.

It is my distinct honor to present the first ever Psi Iota Xi Lifetime Achievement Award to Bette Yeager of the Gamma Nu Chapter in Brownsburg, IN!

Valerie Helms-Mejia

National Project Chair

Alpha, Muncie, IN

Betty Yeager, PNP, pictured with Valerie Helms-Mejia, National Conductress, after being named the Lifetime Achievement Award recipient during the 2025 Psi Iota Xi National Convention in Indianapolis.

Good afternoon,

Let’s give a round of applause to the Upsilon chapter for a fantastic convention. Upsilon gals…BRAVO!!!

As I begin today, I have a few Thank You’s.

My family, Betty and Kathy Miller for introducing me to Psi Iota Xi, and the Beta Delta chapter. We always had each other’s back along with all the love and laughter we shared!

This National Council, if it were not for them, I would not have made it as your National President last year. I didn’t share my information regarding my biological father, Jerry McNall, to many. He committed suicide a week and a half prior to the 2023 National Convention in Evansville. It was the phone calls, especially from Mickie asking….are you ok? She sent me this card.  It was the text messages… just checking in? It was the hugs, the cards and the hang in there gestures that truly touched my heart.

Ladies, this is what Psi Iota Xi is all about. Yes, we raise money for those less fortunate and help our communities. But thru this organization, we have made friendships; loving & caring friendships that will last a lifetime!  Girls, I love you all!!

Thank You to the PNPs who served before me. For setting an example by which I could follow.

• Cathy Etzler, for asking me to be a District Officer. Thank You and I am forever grateful! Love You!!
• Ramona, my first national convention. I’ll never forget driving back from Illinois with Vetha Sennabogan from the Beta Delta chapter in the back seat saying slow down, slow down, you are going too fast. I was driving 55 mph.
• Connie, for hosting convention at the beautiful French Lick resort. Thankfully we all made it home after the storm. 
• Brenda, for making faces at me so I wouldn’t cry giving my President’s speech. You are a true blessing!
• Beth, who always had us laughing at council meetings. Not to mention we always knew she has a cork wine bottle opener.
• To Cathy, Marcia, Sue, & Pat, for hosting their conventions in Fort Wayne. The Grand Wayne had all of your records which made planning extremely helpful!

To the sisters I have become dear friends with:

• To my morning phone calls with Mo. I would call her about every weekday morning on my way to school just to talk or glean advice and possibly me complaining about something that went wrong. We still call each other, just not as frequently. But that is the point, we still call.
• Thank you to Pat Menge, who will be my forever sister & traveling companion. We have covered hundreds of miles, and I look forward to our journeys in the future. Pat’s husband, Dave, refers to us as Thelma and Louise. 
• To the chapters I have become friends with; Decatur, Ossian, Bluffton, Garrett, Angola, and Pi just to name a few. I thank you for allowing me to visit or help with a fundraiser. The many sisters whom I have become friends with. To all Psi Otes, I am always here to help, just give me a ring or an email.
• The weekend Susie, Brenda, Beth, Pat and I loaded into Susie’s small SUV and travelled to Washington, DC, to Gallaudet University to attend a dance performance. All five of us travelled together and stayed in one hotel room. We were packed in but wonderful memories and so many laughs!

After convention, on Sunday evening, council performs a skit for the newly installed president. It usually is created based on her interests, hobbies, career, etc. With that being said, we have a rule at National Council, what happens at council stays at council. Girls, I’m going to break that rule, just this once!! Mickie, Terri, and the others for their beautician skit when Mo was installed as National President. I will never forget it how hard we laughed and the curlers in the girl’s hair! Taffy made the comment “Rhonda you deleted those pictures”. Yea, sure Taffy!! I still have that pink wig!

To the Theta Theta chapter, thank you for hosting a fantastic National Convention last year in Fort Wayne.  

Greg and I have a granddaughter, Leila, who has cerebral palsy. After convention last year a gal approached me and asked, Lawson, Leighton & Leila are they your grandchildren? I said yes. She said my name is Morgan and I am Leila’s school nurse. Morgan is a member of the Alpha Delta, Decatur chapter. Who better to take care of your precious granddaughter than a Psi Ote sister? Morgan, thank you for taking such wonderful care of our girl!! In April they celebrated two years together! If you think Lawson, Leighton & Leila is a tongue twister, the dog’s name is Leo.   

Last but not least, my husband Greg, he is my rock, and I am so blessed. Most of you know him from convention taking your meal ticket or assisting wherever needed. I want to thank you for being so kind to him. After convention he wanted to know if he is an Official “Ci-Ote”. I said Hell yea!!

I depart this council confident we are in MARVELOUS hands. This group of ladies are hardworking and determined for the future of Psi Iota Xi. I am truly honored to have served with them.  Please give them a round of applause!!

As I conclude, I am reminded of a quote from that beloved bear - Winnie the Pooh. “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

Thank You!!!!

Rhonda McNall-Crisenbery

Past National President

Theta Theta, Fort Wayne, IN

Past National President, Rhonda McNall-Crisenbery, giving her final speech as a member of National Council during the 2025 National Convention in Indianapolis, IN.

Happy July Sisters!

It was so good to see so many of you at convention! While there is no scientific evidence to prove that time goes faster each year, it is proven that our perception of time greatly accelerates as we age. I certainly felt that more than ever this year! I have reached the one-year milestone of being a district officer, and I learned a ton from the 15 chapters in the Southwest District. You all have so much to be proud of.

At least 7 chapters in the SW district donated to Hear Indiana this past fiscal year, making up a little over $5000 worth of donations! For all SW chapters, the monetary donations for all other speech and hearing projects were slightly over $14,000. What honorable contributions to see as I combed through the details of each chapter’s PCR. It is exciting to see how each chapter inspires growth and knowledge in the areas of Speech and Hearing by way of scholarships, school programs and camps, and other community assistance.

One chapter I’ll highlight this month is Eta Alpha Nashville, IN. This group of 20 active members has contributed over $10,000 in all areas of music, art, literature, speech and hearing, and community outreach. Some notable donations are to the Brown County High School band, choir, and drama departments as well as to the Brown County Playhouse, public library and art guild. These sisters stay very busy volunteering in the name of Psi Iota Xi by helping with the Brown County Music Center, Playhouse, and art gallery, by giving time and energy at a local food pantry, and by cleaning and coordinating the distribution of clothing to those in need. Excellent work Eta Alpha sisters! We are so pleased to see how well you represent Psi Iota Xi throughout your community.

Now, may you enjoy precious time with your family, friends, and sister Psi Otes as we all know each year goes by a little bit faster than the one before it.

Many blessings,

Erin Schroering

Southwest District Officer

Iota Lambda, Ferdinand, IN



Below, Eta Alpha, Nashville, IN, during their officer installation and spring flower sale.

Thank you, Past National President Mickie Hansen and Upsilon, Greenfield, Indiana for an amazing National Convention weekend. Your dedication to Psi Iota Xi was seen in every thoughtful detail. Congratulations on a job well done!

Autaumn Jacobs

Iota Lambda, Ferdinand

Alice Doyle

Alpha Omicron, Vincennes

Legacy Amber Bushman

Beta Alpha, Flora

Double Legacy Joie Burton

Alpha, Muncie

Vickie Spesard and Michelle Haager

Alpha Iota, Richmond

Alpha, Muncie, IN - Members of the chapter officers and Bargain Box board members met for a pitch-in dinner and final meeting prior to the start of the new year.

Iota Sigma, St. Joseph, IL - Members recently celebrated 21 years of service to Psi Iota Xi and their community.

Eta Iota, Parker City, IN - Members gathered for their summer kickoff meeting.

Chi, Brookston, IN - Members celebrated 104 years of service to Psi Iota Xi and their community with a Luau party.

Beta Psi, Delphi, IN - Noah Red Elk was the recipient of a continuing education grant awarded by Beta Psi. He is pursuing a career in sound design for the performing arts.

Alpha Lambda, Zionsville, IN, participated in Stories in the Park with a booth named "Braced to Read" where kids could make friendship bracelets.

Zeta Iota, Louisville, KY, gathered in May for dinner to celebrate two very special ladies who were having milestone birthdays. Joan was celebrating her 80th birthday while Bertha was celebrating her 100th.

Beta Sigma, Austin, IN, celebrated its 90th anniversary in May at the Scott County Museum and Heritage Center. Congratulations ladies on so many years of service to your community.

Upsilon, Greenfield, IN, practiced their dance moves in preparation for the National Convention dance parties.

Joy Howard

9/15/33 – 5/25/25

WC – Beta Tau, Frankfort, IN

Click here to view the memorial page.

Nancy Henzlik Watts

10/15/52 - 6/12/25

EC - Alpha Muncie, IN

Click here to view the memorial page.

National Convention 2027

Theta Kappa, Edon, OH, will host the 2027 National Convention at the Grand Wayne Convention Center in Fort Wayne, IN.

National Convention 2028

Iota Theta, Armstrong, IL, will host the 2028 National Convention.

National President

Taffy Day, Omega

National Vice President

Sandie Carlson, Theta Kappa

National Secretary

Terri Resler, Alpha Psi

National Treasurer

Mona Knight, Iota Theta

National Advisor

Mickie Hansen, Upsilon

National Project Chair

Valerie Helms-Mejia, Alpha

National Editor

Jane Patton, Alpha Omicron

National Conductress

Missy Cooper, Gamma Nu

Northeast District Officer

Lauren Burk, Gamma Sigma

Northwest District Officer

Pam Gunterman, Theta Delta

East Central District Officer

Beth Vipond, Gamma Tau

West Central District Officer

Pam Karle, Gamma Xi

Southeast District Officer

Carol Good, Alpha Theta

Southwest District Officer

Erin Schroering, Iota Lambda

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If you have any questions about this newsletter, the National Website or have an address/phone/email update please contact your National Editor Jane Patton, janepatton@psiiotaxi.org or 812-881-9064 (call/text).

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Indianapolis, IN 46268

317.471.3512

info@psiiotaxi.org