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DKG Practice/Program

In conclusion, DKG neighboring members of New Brunswick, Canada, and Maine, United States—
two countries sharing one border—have joined in fellowship and learning for more than 60 years, and we
are looking forward to future cross-border conferences. State organizations and chapters that are not as
fortunate to share an international border have many other options to build relationships with other DKG
groups, both close to home and more distant.
Opportunities abound for making connections. Chapters could visit each other through Zoom or Google
Meet and share newsletters, Facebook pages, pen pal letters, and emails. If chapters are geographically
close, they could team up for outings, such as hikes, museum visits, and cultural festivals.
At the 2024 International Convention in National Harbor, Maryland, state organization presidents from
Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine met and discussed a mutual desire to collaborate on future events,
such as professional development opportunities. The three women arranged to meet at a lakeside home in
New Hampshire in the fall of 2024 to generate ideas and plans for prospective shared undertakings.
Some state organizations have welcomed chapters and members in other states and countries
to join their Zoom presentations. All state organizations in Canada have made their presentations on
professional or personal development topics available to members across Canada and the United States.
In February 2024, New Brunswick opened their Zoom program about slavery in the northeast to their
DKG neighbors. In January 2024, Canada, Europe, and Alaska state organizations held a virtual “Cultural
Exchange” meeting. Members from 10
countries shared information about their
respective cultures and highlighted Delta
Kappa Gamma accomplishments in their
communities. This virtual gathering linked
members globally and was an enlightening
experience for all.
Forging connections with other
chapters, state organizations, and members
from different countries could add an
enriching and stimulating dimension to
your DKG involvement. You and your
chapter members or state officers might
generate a list of potential DKG alliances
with whom you would enjoy building
relationships. Start reaching out to one
or more presidents and make plans to get
together. Don’t miss out on this rewarding
opportunity! “In 2018, in Austin, Texas, DKG groups from Maine
and New Brunswick met to discuss having cross-border
weekend meetings. The idea soon blossomed! What a great
association!” (Elaine Hendrickson)

Dianne Caron has been a member of Beta Chapter of New Brunswick State Organization in Canada since 1994. She served as state
organization president 2007–2009 and is now serving again from 2023–2025. During her career, she taught at various levels and continued
as an elementary school administrator. After retiring, she wrote her memoir, “Tenderness and Tolerance,” and enjoys traveling and “family
time.” dicaron47@gmail.com
Priscilla McFarland spent 39 years teaching in the elementary grades. She has been a member of Theta Chapter for 15 years and is
currently president of Maine State Organization. She is kept busy in retirement with plays and concerts, the Retired Teachers’ Association,
genealogy, and friends. pmcfarland1227@gmail.com

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