| The Gamma Psi Chapter at The University of North Carolina at Charlotte has had a busy year! Among other things, we raised over $2000 for the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Dr. Jeannine Skinner, Assistant Professor of Gerontology and Psychological Sciences; supported local assisted living communities with fall festivals, painting fun, Valentines and St. Patrick’s Day activities; volunteered at a local County Dog Show to support Senior Games; and encouraged students to consider gerontology studies at university open houses and resource fairs. We also inducted ten new members into our chapter at our annual year-end event to celebrate student achievements and selected our 11th annual Outstanding Senior in Gerontology (who, of course, must be an active member of Sigma Phi Omega)! |
Don’t be chicken
As with most universities, students at ESU love t-shirts. We have successfully sold aging themed t-shirts in the past and decided to do it again. The sale was very successful, as people throughout campus enjoyed our theme: Don’t be chicken, embrace aging.
Sigma Phi Omega: Inspiring others to make a difference
This spring, was another busy semester for Sigma Phi Omega – Delta Eta Chapter. Two general meetings were held that covered topics of health and wellness of the older adults as well as financial planning and retirement preparation opportunities for students. Members learned about the importance of advocating for older adults’ health as well as common comorbidities amongst the older adult population. Also, members learned about how to become financially literate and how to properly save for retirement. Both meetings provided useful information for members as they continue to further their knowledge as future professionals in the growing field of gerontology. Additionally, several thesis study dates were held to assist busy students stay on top of their academic deadlines.
In addition to the in-campus meetings that were hosted this semester, Sigma Phi Omega leaders and members had the opportunity to attend the annual The California Council on Gerontology and Geriatrics (CCGG)’ 38th Annual Meeting in La Verne, CA. Students and faculty of the CSULB Gerontology Program, presented their research findings and engaged in roundtable discussions.
CSULB Sigma Phi Omega members closed the eventful agenda of the 2018 Spring semester by attending the International Dinner organized by Professional Alliance to Help Seniors (PATH) in collaboration with Sunrise Senior Living – Hermosa Beach, CA and USC Sigma Phi Omega chapter. The dinner was a great experience for all who attended, students and residents. About twelve Sunrise residents and twelve CSULB and USC students shared stories about important intergenerational experiences. The evening ended with a game of “guess that song – Intergenerational edition.” The game featured melodies that were familiar to both younger and older generations. Because the evening’s goal was for students and residents to bond and learn from each other, the idea of “pen-pal” was implemented in order to continue to nurture their newfound friendships.
As another academic year is quickly approaching, members of our society will continue to network. A get- together is planned for May to recognize our individual and group successes. With the many of our current board members are graduating this year, we wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors! To the rest of us, we are looking forward to a fun summer and another successful academic year! GO BEACH!