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Inspirational Piece

Tribute to Past International

President Dr. Carolyn J. Rants

By Constance L. Hoag, Donna Niday, and Pam Wittkamp

This article is derived from a tribute to
Past International President Dr. Carolyn

Rants that was delivered at the 2024
International Convention.

Our intentions for a tribute to Dr. Carolyn Rants at the 2024
International Celebration of Life Ceremony were to “trace”
Carolyn’s international journey and share her inspiration
and legacy by recalling some of her most notable Society
contributions. We share those thoughts here to expand the
reach of this tribute to those who may not be familiar with
the nature and work of this exceptional DKG leader. Our
format is personal, linking the first letter of Carolyn’s name
to examples of her distinctive characteristics—and then
relating those attributes to her international participation and
accomplishments.

Carolyn Was a Contributor
Carolyn welcomed many DKG opportunities and leadership positions during her 62 years of
membership. In 1981, she received the Eunah Temple Holden International Scholarship. She was a member
of the Class of 1987 Leadership Management Seminar (now entitled IGNITE) and served on the Society’s
research, scholarship, and Focus 2000 committees. Over the years, Carolyn was elected and contributed
as Northwest Regional Director, DKG First Vice President, and, ultimately, International President for the
2008–2010 biennium. She also served as a trustee of the DKG Educational Foundation Board.

Carolyn Was Charismatic
When Carolyn walked into a room, it just seemed to light up with energy. Wherever she went, she was
approached by those in awe of her. She invited others to share about themselves so she could get to know
them. Carolyn knew how to “work a room”—she was approachable, open, and greeted others with her
warm smile. One time a convention bus had to wait for Carolyn to walk the aisles, greeting each person
individually, before beginning the tour.

Carolyn Was Courageous
Sometimes Carolyn was a risk-taker by encouraging a forward-looking approach. In her acceptance
speech at the 2008 International Convention, she challenged members by saying, “We need the wisdom
to design the vision and the passion to take the necessary action to advance the Society.” Her call-to-
action led to the revision of the Constitution and the International Standing Rules at the 2010 Spokane

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