Notes of Belonging: Shining Together

BY AUTUMN MCBRIDE (TAU, BRENAU UNIVERSITY), education and engagement manager 

Summertime invites us to slow down and soak in the warmth of life! Just like a bonfire begins with a single flicker, our spark has the power to ignite connection. Whether we are walking at golden hour or watching fireflies dance in the night, one truth remains: we shine brightest when we shine together.  

The Alpha Chi Omega sisterhood is more than shared letters – it’s shared light! Echoing the calls of our Symphony “to shed the light of love and friendship round me,” each of us carries something beautiful to be shared. When we lead with humility and live out our values, we help foster a radiant collective where all can grow and belong.  

Togetherness isn’t only found in grand gestures. Often, it’s found in the quiet afternoons, shared jokes and unexpected check-ins. Just as summer leaves a lasting glow, so do the small moments where care and connection take root! 

So, how do we carry that warmth in ways that uplift others? Here are four ways we can keep shining together. 

Be present, not perfect 

You don’t need all the answers to make a difference in someone’s life. Often the most meaningful gift we offer is simply being there. Listening without judgement or sharing a quiet space with a sister cultivates trust. These everyday acts of devotion create an environment where authenticity is cherished, from Bid Day to a 75-year membership celebration. Presence sends the message: you matter just as you are! By choosing presence over performance, we establish bonds that help others feel truly seen.  

Lead with Intention 

A sense of belonging is built through intentional actions over time. Whether it’s remembering a detail from a conversation, picking up a friend’s favorite snack or showing kindness on a busy day, little gestures can carry great weight. Every time we invite someone new into a space or consider how they might feel, we model what it means to “send forth the chords of love, unselfishness, sincerity,” as our Symphony instructs. Acting with purpose helps us nurture a culture where openness and compassion are the foundation.  

Celebrate and Support One Another 

True connection holds space for every part of the journey – the highs, lows and everything in between. When we cheer each other on and lend strength during hard times, we show up in ways that matter. Whether a sister is reaching a milestone or simply making it through a tough week, recognizing each other’s wins, big or small, shows that all stories are worth celebrating.  

Honor THE SPARK We Share 

Nurturing a welcoming atmosphere takes work! It grows through honest effort and shared responsibility. That means taking ownership of the experience we’re shaping together. Let’s be mindful of our words, actions and how we recognize one another. Our individuality adds depth to our collective glow; when we value that diversity, we strengthen the very core of Alpha Chi Omega.  

__________________  

Remember, the brightness we carry becomes even stronger when it’s shared. Let’s continue building sisterhood that shines not just for each other, but because of each other! 

What stood out to you in this Note of Belonging? Join the conversation by sharing your story of belonging through your Alpha Chi Omega journey or recommend a sister to do so!