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Features

Reflections on the DKG

Journey for Life

By Becky Sadowski,
2023 International Achievement Award Recipient

Each year, The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International recognizes one member for
distinguished service to the Society. From recommendations submitted by members,
chapters, or state organizations, the international executive board selects a member

for this honor, symbolized by a gold medallion presented to the recipient. We invited
2023 winner Becky Sadowski to share her thoughts on DKG.

Never underestimate your impact on another person’s journey. I realize that the beginning of my 34-
year experience in DKG greatly influenced many decisions I would make as a member. The person who
first approached me about joining this group of women educators carefully explained that membership
is an honor—but one that comes with great responsibility. I listened as she shared so many exciting
opportunities that would be available to me as well as the women who would support me along the
way. She only asked that I be open to those possibilities, with the understanding that I would make
my own choices regarding how I wanted to contribute to the life of the
organization. I was eager to see where the journey would take
me, and I quickly discovered that my mentor’s description
was certainly accurate! With the encouragement and
support of so many others “traveling with me,”
I have enjoyed all parts of my membership. I
am filled with gratitude for the people, places,
opportunities, and connections that are woven
throughout my DKG memories. My hope is
that all of us will continue to embrace the
responsibility of Society membership as we
enjoy the tremendous benefits offered to us.
Every day we seem to be confronted
with the challenge of change as we seek new
ways to accomplish our work or provide
tools and resources for guiding groups
through the process of creating positive
change. We learned this all too well when we
found ourselves in a very different experience
as we navigated a world impacted by a pandemic.
DKG members quickly learned to communicate
and accomplish their work through a more efficient
use of technology. Our creativity and willingness to adapt
allowed us to continue carrying out our Mission. Dr. Blanton

Collegial Exchange · 5