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Jan/Feb 2025
Jan/Feb 2025 | Vol. 82 No. 1 | Vol. 82 No. 1

From IEF p. 6 Members who attended DKG Ignite reflected on the impact of the seminar:
Connie Rensink, 2024-2026 DKG Leadership Development Committee chair and
2012 DKG Leadership Management Seminar participant, “The Leadership Seminar

was a transformative experience, equipping me with invaluable knowledge and
skills that continue to shape my journey today—and, perhaps even more cherished,
forging lifelong connections with 30 extraordinary DKG women from around the
globe who inspire and uplift me. Whether a seasoned leader or a novice ready to
take on new challenges, I highly encourage DKG members to apply for Ignite 2026.”
Connie Rensink, TX
Dr. Angela Hill, NC DKG Region VI regional director and Phi Chapter president, shares,
“DKG Ignite was a turning point for me as a leader. I was finishing my doctorate and
ready to return to a principal role. At DKG Ignite, I reconnected with who I was as a

leader. That opportunity has allowed me to lead authentically with a clear vision of
areas of strength and areas for improvement. With this self-realization as a leader, I
have been able to lead strategically for the students, staff, and community I serve.”
Dr. Angela Hill, NC
Aníta Jónsdóttir from Iceland describes her unique experience, “Participation in DKG Ignite 2022 was very
challenging and took me out of my comfort zone, making me stronger personally and
professionally. One of DKG’s goals is to strengthen relationships between women

working in education worldwide. That goal was truly fulfilled in Austin when I attended
the seminar with DKG sisters from all over the world. Taking part in DKG Ignite [Golden
Gift] is not just about learning something new. I made good friends, had a wonderful
roommate, and met great teachers. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to attend this
amazing course offered by DKG, and I’m thankful I took advantage of the opportunity.”
Aníta Jónsdóttir, IC
“DKG Ignite really changed my life, and only for the good,” said Jeannine de Jong from the Netherlands. “As
a result of the DKG Ignite training, I became confident enough to become the leader as state president of the
Netherlands. I am also a member of the DKG Leadership Discovery Centre. I get so

much support from the training, and especially from my fellow students of Ignite
2022!”
A survey conducted by the 2008–2010 Golden Gift Fund Committee revealed that
one-fourth of responding attendees advanced in their careers, and 47% took on elected
or appointed roles at the international level. Many credited the seminar with inspiring
them to pursue leadership beyond the chapter level. The 2024-2026 Leadership
Development Committee will be conducting a similar survey to update these statistics. Jeannine de Jong, NL

Finances and Future of the Golden Gift Fund:

Initially, the Leadership Management Seminar was an annual, two-week residential program, with participants
paying a $500 registration fee. Travel and lodging expenses were covered by the investment income and
donations of the Golden Gift Fund. However, due to economic challenges, the fund’s resources began to decline.
In response, in 1997, it was decided that the seminar would be offered every two years. See IEF p. 8

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