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From the Editor

The DKG Triad . . .

Three key ideas that have dominated the current biennium in DKG—vitality, relevance, and
sustainability—are readily evident in this issue of the Collegial Exchange. Authors herein not only
express the many ways that the Society—at all levels—gives them strength and is meaningful in their
lives but also address sincere concerns about whether DKG will continue to exist in light of membership
trends. Whether recommending an analytical approach such as use of the Logic Model; suggesting a
constitutional route to reshape the Society in a major way; or focusing on both new and re-newed ideas
for engaging members at various levels—writers clearly want the many benefits of Delta Kappa Gamma
to be available to women educators of the future.
As I worked on this issue, my love of language and particular fascination with the nuances of words
and with “unpacking” meaning kept bringing me back to this thought (mimicking and re-forming a
famous one about faith, hope, and love): “vitality, relevance, and sustainability … and the greatest of
these is relevance.” For me, the key to DKG relevance is captured in our Mission statement: “The Delta
Kappa Gamma Society International promotes professional and personal growth of women educators
and excellence in education.” This devotion to growth and to excellence provides the meaning and
purpose that unite members no matter their job title, location, age, experience, or other individual
qualities. That relevance is the source of the organization’s vitality; if what we are and what we do are
not relevant to members dedicated collectively and individually to our Mission, we do not have vigor …
and without vigor, we cannot continue to survive; we are not sustainable. No matter the level of DKG
with which one engages—relevance is the linchpin and North Star that allows us to be “forward moving
ever.”
In a complex international organization
such as DKG, reaching for relevance
is an ongoing challenge that involves
acknowledging the diversity of members and
their needs; being conscious of addressing
those needs equitably; and working hard to
be inclusive at every level. When we work
to make DKG relevant in these ways—
particularly in the context of an ever-changing
world—vitality and sustainability follow. May
the articles in this issue both demonstrate
and promote relevance, inspiring readers
to embrace the challenges and the future as
key women educators impacting education
worldwide.

Judy Merz, EdD
Editor

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