The Emerald Newsletter | Kappa Delta Chi Sorority Summer 2017 | Page 9

9

A Tip From Risk Management

Amanda Calton

Risk Management Officer

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization and was named one of "America's 100 Best Charities" by Worth magazine. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE,

online.rainn.org & rainn.org/es) in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.

RAINN compiled the following list of safety tips for those heading back to campus ('tis the season!), but they are applicable in wide ranger of situations. Keep them in mind any time you are in a heavily populated or unfamiliar location and make sure you are always looking out, not only for yourself, but for each other.

1. Trust your instincts and be yourself.

If you feel unsafe, or even uncomfortable, in any situation, go with your gut. Don’t worry about what others think; your own safety comes first.

2. Use your cell phone as a tool.

Make sure it’s fully charged before you leave home. If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, shoot a quick text for a “friend-assist.“Make a plan before you go out just in case your phone dies, so you can meet up with your friends at a specific location at a certain time.

3. Be careful when leaving status messages online and when using the “check-in” feature on social media.

Leaving information about your whereabouts reveals details that are accessible to everyone. Use common sense so that someone can’t track your every move. If you wouldn’t give the information to a stranger, then don’t put it on your online profile.

3. Don’t be afraid to hurt someone’s feelings.

If you find yourself in an unsafe situation it’s OK to lie.Make up an excuse as to why you have to go. It’s better to make up a reason to leave than to stay in a possibly dangerous situation. Your safety comes before someone else’s feelings.

4. If you see something, say something!

Intervene if a situation seems questionable or if someone’s safety is at risk.By taking action you can prevent a crime from being committed.Remember you can alsocontact your resident assistant or campus police.

5. Stick with your friends, and watch out for each other.

Arrive together, check in with one another throughout the night, and leave together. Think twice about going off alone and if, for whatever reason, you have to separate from your friends, let them know where you are going and who you are with.

6. Drink responsibly and know your limits.

Don’t accept drinks from people who you don’t know or trust, and never leave your drink unattended. If you have left your drink alone, get a new one. Always watch your drink being prepared. At parties, stick to drinks you got or prepared yourself instead of common open containers like punch bowls.

7. Watch out for your friends.

If a friend seems out of it, is way too intoxicated for the amount of alcohol they’ve had, or is acting out of character, get him or her to a safe place. If you suspect that you or a friend has been drugged, call 911. Be explicit with doctors so they can administer the correct tests.

8. Be aware of your surroundings.

Whether you’re walking home from the library or at a party be mindful of potential risks. Get to know your campus and learn a well-lit route back to your dorm or place of residence. Think of a safe exit strategy.Are there people around who might be able to help you? Is there an emergency phone nearby?

Position(s) held: Regional Chair, District Chair, Chapter Advisor, Expansion Committee Member, Colony Development Officer.

Initiation: Year/University/Chapter/Class/name if you have one 2013/University of Texas at Dallas/ Charter Class/ First Emeralds

Hobbies/Fun Facts: Traveling/Family/ I love my 2 fur babies. My Dogs are adorable.

I chose to join National Leadership because I wanted to stay involved with our sisterhood. As we grow and expand I want to be able to provide mentoring and guidance to all our sisters. I love our sisterhood and through leadership I can give back to our organization.

Alexa Acosta

Communications Officer

I always knew I wanted to hold a leadership position in KDChi, I just never imagined it would be right after graduating college. But, after seeing how my sisterhood came together in a matter of hours to support one of my Chapter sisters in life a threatening situation, I knew I couldn't wait any longer.

Initiation: Spring 2015, Southern Methodist University, Upsilon Chapter, The Astonishing Alpha Alpha Class

Day Job: Marketing Specialist

Hobbies/Fun Facts: I am a freelance Graphic Designer and I love to paint. Rice is my favorite food, but I haven't had any in the past 5 months. I am obsessed with my puppy Nala. I also kickbox/box on a daily basis.

Graduate/Professional Member Education Officer

Kenya Bennero

Position(s) held: Alumnae Regional Chair

Initiation: Summer 2013, Delta Alpha Chapter, Delta Class

Day Job: Physical Education Teacher

I chose to serve on the National Leadership Team because I wanted to give back to my chapter, Delta Alpha. I want to see my chapter grow, and what better way to that in helping with the intake process. I have been an active alumna since my initiation. I love my chapter and this sisterhood.

Nancy Gomez

Historian/Chaplain   

I wanted to be part of making a difference, wanted to be on the table of decision making and be able to voice my opinion

Position(s) held: District Chair

Initiation: Spring 2012, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Alpha Kappa, My class was the Katalytic 5, my KDChi name is Panda

Day Job: I am a Runaway and Homeless Youth Program Coordinator/Volunteer Coordinator r

Hobbies/Fun Facts: Not a lot of free time in my life, so when I have free time I like to read for my classes or sleep.

Initiation: Spring 2004, University of Houston, Theta Chapter, Tau Class

Day Job: Early Childhood Education Consultant/Trainer

Hobbies/Fun Facts: I like to do crafty things, mostly DIY stuff.

Membership Officer

Isabel Martinez

I wanted to be in a position where I can best support Alumni and Undergraduates

Brianna Beltran

New Member Education Officer   

I wanted to give back to the organization, and help to shape the future of KDChi.

Position(s) held: NMEO, Alumnae Regional Chair

Initiation: Spring 2012, Clarkson University, Beta Beta Chapter, Charter Class (10 Rays of Sunshine)

Day Job: Doctoral Psychology Intern

Hobbies/Fun Facts: Cooking/Baking, going to the beach, reading, exploring new places!

Colony Development Officer

Melanie Castro