Volume 98 - Issue 10| April 2026

Cathy Tenney, Editor

A Message from Dr. Molly


Amid many responsibilities in our professional and personal lives, it is important to pause and reflect on the attitudes and habits that influence how we lead, serve, and connect with others. The following five points encourage us to slow down, reevaluate our perspectives, and renew the positive spirit we bring to our chapters, colleagues, and communities where we live. 


A – Being aware of our attitude is the first step toward personal growth and positive influence. Each day, our mindset influences how we respond to challenges, interact with others, and approach our work. Whether our attitude is optimistic, patient, or discouraged, we have the power to adjust it through reflection. A positive, aware attitude strengthens our resilience and lifts those around us, creating a more encouraging and productive environment.


P - Having a pointed presence means being fully aware of how we show up in the moment and intentionally focusing our attention, words, and actions. It involves listening attentively, speaking thoughtfully, and connecting with purpose instead of distraction. When we practice a pointed presence, we communicate respect, confidence, and clarity. It helps others feel seen, heard, and valued while ensuring our contributions make a meaningful impact.


R – Relaxation and rest are vital for maintaining both mental clarity and physical energy. In a world that often promotes constant activity, taking time to pause allows the mind and body to recover, refocus, and rejuvenate. Rest boosts our resilience, enhances our ability to think clearly, and helps us return to our responsibilities with more patience and efficiency. 


I – Introspection lets us pause, reflect, and better understand our thoughts, actions, and purpose. During quiet moments of introspection, we often uncover insights that guide our personal growth and direction. From this inward look, inspiration naturally flows, sparking new ideas, renewed motivation, and a clearer vision of the path ahead. Taking time for introspection helps us reconnect with what truly matters and encourages us to move forward with renewed spirit, purpose, and hope.


L – Learning to laugh and use humor can brighten both our hearts and outlook. Laughter reminds us not to carry life's burdens more heavily than necessary. Humor helps us step back from stress and find joy in everyday moments. It is normal to face challenging times that may feel overwhelming. Laughter has a way of lifting burdens, easing tension, and bringing lightness to difficult moments. When we allow ourselves to laugh - at situations with friends, colleagues, and especially ourselves – we create space for grace, resilience, and connection with others. In these moments, laughter helps us move forward with a lighthearted spirit and a brighter outlook. 


As we reflect on these five simple points, let us incorporate them into our daily routines and interactions. By cultivating awareness of attitude, pointed presence, relaxation and rest, introspection, and laughter mixed with humor, members of OHSO can continue to uplift each other and enhance the positive influence we have on our chapters, colleagues, and the communities we serve. 


Memories of our lives, of our work, and our deeds will continue in others. ~ Rosa Parks


Energetically,

Dr. Molly Helmlinger, Beta Kappa

OHSO State President

Gamma Sigma Chapter

Night of Service

 

Gamma Sigma Chapter held their annual Night of Service project meeting in March. It included a sundae bar with all monetary donations going to UNICEF GIRLS charity, collecting new books for children to be donated to Perry County Help Me Grow for their case workers to distribute during their home visits, and blanket tying with all blankets going to Perry County JFS Child Protective Services for children who are going into their care. The blankets are like a warm hug when they need it most. Pictured in the lower right corner is Sharon Cains, who has been appointed as our Mental Health and Wellness leader. Each meeting she has presented a short activity related to the importance of mental wellness. This month she focused on joy and laughter.

Delta Upsilon Chapter members visited elementary schools in their area to read in primary-grade classrooms in honor of Right to Read Week.

Carol Lucille Rothrock

Delta Phi Chapter

Membership Matter


Belonging is feeling connected, accepted, and valued.


  • Do you appreciate a point of difference - both the visible and invisible differences?
  • Do you ensure that all members have fair opportunities to participate?
  • Do you ensure that all members can use resources and benefits - removing barriers as needed?
  • Do you ensure that all members feel welcomed, respected, supported, valued, and included?


Meier Bauer, Gamma Phi

OHSO Recording Secretary

OHSO Membership Chair

Gamma Phi Chapter

Amy Wagner

Gamma Upsilon Chapter held their March meeting and pizza party at Kent Social Services in Portage County. Members donated nonperishable food and Easter basket items to KSS. Gamma Upsilon was joined by nine pre-service teachers from Kent State University. Everyone enjoyed a fundraising activity held in support of CASA. The students and members enjoyed their time together! 

Membership Data for 2025 - 2026

Active Paid

Members

Collegiate Paid Members

Reserve Paid Members

Total Paid Members

Ohio Chapters


2092

7

262

2,361

67

DKG Ohio Financial Update for

July 1, 2025 - March 31, 2026

Statement of Financial Activity

Dues Revenue

$28,715.00

Non-dues Revenue

$ 5,624.00

Investment Revenue

$37,661.00 (unrealized)

Expenses

$26,254.00

Net Income

$45,746.00

Statement of Financial Position

Checking/Savings

$35,474.00

Prepaid Expenses

$ 184.00

Available Fund Reserve*

$ 15,000.00

Investments

$278,654.00

Total Assets

$329,312.00

Credit Card Liabilities

$ 0.00

Total Equity

$329,312.00

*Available Fund Reserve is an Executive Board Directed fund for technology-related upgrades and licenses. Constitution Article IV, Section F, 2, f, (3). p. C-5. 

DKG International Educators Foundation

Information from DKGIEF


Active educators hoping for financial assistance to attend a professional development event between July 1 and December 31 should look for the Cornetet Individual Professional Development application. It can be found on DKG.org > DKGIEF> Funds. The application deadline for the upcoming period of funding is May 1, so don’t delay! Please be thorough in completing the application and refer to the scoring rubric to be certain that you are meeting all the necessary requirements. We love to have Ohio recipients! Good luck!! 

Beta Nu Chapter hosted Cheryl Popp, Chairman and Executive Director of Honor Flight Tri-State in Cincinnati who gave an interesting and inspirational program. Cheryl Popp is pictured with Barb Reif, Beta Nu Vice President.

Alpha Theta Chapter had a program by Lynette Marr entitled "Here Be Penguins" A Trip to Antarctica. As a current tour guide and retired Orrville school teacher, she created a slideshow presentation of her trip to Antarctica with her traveling companion, Shirley Weyrauch. 

Inside International


DKG Ohio members are encouraged to participate in the monthly Inside International Meetings via Zoom. Join the meeting for an hour to enjoy a conversation with International leaders and staff. Directors and elected leaders will be available to answer questions and welcome comments. The link to the meetings is available on the DKG International website.


Upcoming Inside International Dates

(Eastern Time)   

    

Tuesday, April 7 @ 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, May 5 @ 1:30 p.m.

Gamma Theta Chapter recently celebrated their members with a member appreciation meeting! The committee of Linda Woods, Robin Echols-Cooper, Karie Matejka, Linda Lanese and Kathy Watson did a fantastic job of recognizing accomplishments, playing getting-to-know-you games and providing a festive experience for all who attended! 

Gamma Iota Chapter members Cindy Vehovec and Donna Valtman display the toys collected for the Toys for Tots campaign sponsored by the Marines.

Important Upcoming Dates to Remember


April 7, 2026

 Inside International @6:30 p.m. Eastern

dkg.org → Events → Virtual Events Around DKG → Inside International Monthly Zoom Meeting 


April 14, 2026

Inside Connections @ 1:30 p.m. Eastern

dkg.org → Events → Virtual Events Around DKG → Inside Connections Zoom Meeting 


April 15, 2026

Chapter Presidents/Co-Presidents Pictures Due

Email to editor@dkgohio.org


April 16, 2026

Inside Leadership @ 1:30 p.m. Eastern

dkg.org → Events → Virtual Events Around DKG → Inside Leadership Zoom Meeting 


April 16, 2026

OHSO Chapter Presidents Connection

6:30 p.m. via Zoom


April 18, 2026

Treasurer's Talk @ 11:00 a.m. Eastern

dkg.org → Events → Virtual Events Around DKG → Treasurer’s Talk Zoom Meeting 


April 23, 2026

Inside Impact @ 6:30 p.m. Eastern Programs & Projects


April 28, 2026

Meet the Candidates: Your Voice, Your Choice


April 30, 2026

Dissertation Recognition Forms Due

MyDKG → Apply/Submit → Doctoral Recognition 


May 1, 2026

Conetet Individual Professional Development Application Due


May 2, 2026

OHSO Spring Executive Board Meeting

ADSOEF Annual Meeting


May 5, 2026

Inside International @ 1:30 p.m. Eastern


May 12, 2026

Inside Connections @ 6:30 p.m. Eastern


May 20, 2026

OHSO Chapter Presidents Connection

6:30 p.m. via Zoom

Ohio State Organization Related Links

Delta Kappa Gamma promotes professional and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education.