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Personal Reflection/Anecdote

Convention Memories from a

NewBEE: Seizing Opportunities

By Debra Groce

Debra Groce is
Ten years ago, when I turned 50, I decided to be more adventurous, step outside the Academic and
my comfort zone, and seize opportunities that came my way. Attending the 2022 Intellectually Gifted
DKG International Convention in New Orleans was one such venture. (AIG) Specialist at
As a “NewBEE”—that’s a term for all first-timers—I was honored to see my Deep River Elementary
name scrolling down the screen with those of 199 other women who bore this title. School in Sanford,
Gazing into the ballroom where all gathered for general sessions, I saw women North Carolina. Prior to
milling about chatting, seeking friends unseen since the pandemic, and rekindling serving in this position,
she taught Grade 4
enduring friendships. I was moved as I witnessed their sweet reunions. Taking for 9 years. A member
in the scene, I felt welcome and knew I, too, would make friends I would look since 2020, Groce is
forward to seeing in the future. second vice president
Common threads in the group and breakout-session presentations resonated of Delta Rho Chapter
with me both personally and professionally. Messages of adaptability, resilience, in North Carolina
perspective, and balance stirred my thoughts and caused me to reflect on how each State Organization
and is also president
of these is essential in my classroom and in my life. of the Lee County
Reading, hearing, and learning about the scope of DKG is important, and I did Reading Association.
that. Being in New Orleans and seeing the presentation of flags representing more dhgroce87@gmail.com
than 900 women in attendance and members unable to attend was truly affirming.
I was reminded of the bigger picture—
how my own Delta Rho Chapter fits
into it and how what I do and what
we do at the local level impacts the
state organization and international
levels. I was reminded that I am a part
of something very special, and I was
honored to be in attendance.
Conventions of any kind can be
long and are always tiring, but I am
glad I attended, as the atmosphere was
energetic and exciting. Planning and
preparing for this event as a vacation
eased the financial drawback. The
camaraderie and kindness extended
by everyone I met were genuine and
Busy Bee © Photograph by Mari heartwarming. I was impressed with our
Turner, NC; Fall 2022 Art Gallery leaders and look forward to the future of
DKG. The next international events will
be held in July 2023: Tampere, Phoenix,
or Detroit anyone?

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