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Inspirational Piece

Carolyn Continued Contributing

Carolyn did not just return to Iowa from her international presidency and relax! That was not her style.
For example, she noticed that families from a low-income school across from her church were unable to
afford band instruments and music lessons for their children, so she set up a new program in her church
for lessons to be provided . . . and Carolyn loved giving piano lessons herself.
Carolyn remained actively involved in her chapter, district, and the Iowa State Organization (ISO).
From chapter treasurer to state parliamentarian, she was the go-to person. She was co-founder of the Iowa
Avenue M project and had been planning to co-present on that topic at the 2024 International Convention.
Just a few weeks before she left this world, she led a state Zoom meeting with the chapter presidents,
explaining strategic planning through using the SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats)
process. The session was recorded, and thus Iowa members have information combined with a lasting
legacy.

Carolyn Was Classy

Carolyn was a true lady, being very stylish in dress and personal appearance. She also enjoyed a few
other “C” words: chocolate, Chardonnay, and lots of coffee!

Carolyn Was Captivating
Together we have “traced” many of the DKG contributions of Dr. Carolyn J. Rants by highlighting
her international presidency in 2008–2010 and her selection as recipient of the International Achievement
Award in 2011. For all Society members, Carolyn’s pathway models
• a love for Delta Kappa Gamma and a pride in all that DKG symbolizes;
• a philosophy of honoring the vision of Dr. Annie Webb Blanton and our DKG Founders while
being ready and open to new policies and procedures;
• a motivation that leads us into celebrating our 100-year birthday in 2029, recognizing and continuing
the contributions DKG has and is making to children and education worldwide; and
• a challenge for all to continue to be collaborative, courageous, and creative colleagues, reinforcing
our commitments to DKG and each other while celebrating our “Society Like No Other.”
Carolyn’s was a life well lived. We thank her for her contributions and example to all members of
DKG and beyond.

Dr. Constance L. (Connie) Hoag, a 62-year member of DKG, Professor Emerita of the University of South Dakota, and a
co-founder of Iowa State Organization Avenue M Taskforce, is a member of Mu Chapter. Previous international contributions
include co-authoring Our Heritage Volume 3 (H3) and serving as member or chair on seven committees and as a member on the
Educational Foundation Board of Trustees. In 2021, she received the International Achievement Award. hoag5775@gmail.com

Dr. Donna Niday is currently serving as an International Member-at-Large (2024–2028), as the Iowa State Organization
parliamentarian, and as Eta Chapter president. Previously, she served as the Northwest Regional Director and was the chair/
member of three international committees. Her teaching experience includes middle school, high school, community college,
and university levels. She is also a co-author of two books on mentoring beginning teachers. dniday@iastate.edu

Pam Wittkamp currently serves as the Iowa State Organization secretary and Alpha Iota Chapter parliamentarian. Previously,
she was a chair/member of two international committees. In 2019, along with Dr. Carolyn Rants, she co-chaired the International
Leadership Conference in Des Moines, Iowa. She taught middle school and high school geography and history for more than
30 years. pkwittkamp@indsvccorp.com

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