What is a Browser?
Our members most typically communicate with DKG via the Internet. Browsing the Internet is a common, daily occurrence for most people. Have you ever considered why they call it browsing? It is because you use an internet browser, also know as a Web browser.
A browser is simply a software program that you use to access the internet and view web pages on your computer, smartphone, or tablet. It is the gateway to the Internet.
The original browser, Mosaic (1992) was not graphical. It was text-based. Browsers have come a long way since then. You now have powerful browsers that let you safely and quickly access your favorite websites.
Most browsers are available for free download. The four most popular Internet browsers today include Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Apple Safari.
Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Because some websites display better in one Internet browser or another, many people have at least two browsers available on their computer, smartphone, or tablet. These strengths and weaknesses are discussed in more detail below.
The Courage to Consider…..
I do not believe that I had courage greater than women educators of 2017. When I saw a need for change, I sought and received the support of other women educators who encouraged me. YOU are faced with the NEED to examine the Society I was fortunate to establish in 1929. It is befitting, for example, that YOU consider whether those original seven Purposes serve the modern educator—and are those Purposes listed in the order they should remain? Of course, a “genuine spiritual fellowship” is important, and it’s easy to achieve and to cite. However, in the modern age of rapid communication and instant news, should greater consideration be given to informing “members of current economic, social, political and educational issues so that they may participate effectively in a world society”? The modern woman has a greater opportunity to actively engage in issues that impact her professionally and personally than the woman of 1929. The need to be involved is not greater, but the opportunity to be more effective is much improved. The Purposes as they are now listed range from easy to achieve to more challenging. I am inviting you to determine what MOST addresses the needs of the modern woman educator.
Working Together for Progress: President, Treasurer, Membership Chair
Chapters are the backbone and strength of the DKG Society International. Chapters are where members engage in altruistic activities and fellowship, and chapters are the places in which and through which membership grows and strengthens. Chapters engage in activities that are meaningful to their communities. During each biennium, state organization leaders train chapter leaders to carry out the work of DKG at the chapter level. Such leadership development is an integral part of the society.
At regional conferences this summer, international leaders shared ideas with state organization counterparts, such as the detailed and practical recruitment plan that can be found on the DKG website. More significantly, state organization presidents, treasurers, and membership chairs worked together to discuss strategies and develop plans to encourage chapter presidents, treasurers, and membership chairs to work as a team when recruiting new members, retaining current members, and collecting dues in a timely and manageable manner.
International Scholarship Applications Now Available!
Going back for a higher degree???
The Heat is On! Rise to the top by applying for a DKG international scholarship -- $6,000 toward earning an advanced degree and $10,000 toward a doctoral degree.
The international scholarship application is now online for awards to be presented for the 2018-2019 academic year. Just go to www.dkg.org, click on Forms, go to the Application link, and find the application link at the bottom of the page.
Start the process today. The deadline is February 1, 2018 to submit the application and all supporting documentation. Be sure to follow the directions carefully and complete all sections of the application.
Our committee looks forward to reading your outstanding application next February!
SW Regional Enjoyed Hawaiian Aloha Spirit
Aloha! Palm trees, ocean breezes, being in Hawaii: A perfect setting for the women of the Southwest Region to gather for their 2017 conference. While at times it was hard not to want to walk on the beach instead of attending a session, more than 500 members attended every general session and lots of wonderful and informative workshops. From the pre-conference trainings, to the opening night hula dancers, to the amazing speakers, DKG members were treated to the true Aloha spirit by the members from Hawaii.
Throughout the conference the words “simplify” and “change” were spoken. We even did a Survey Monkey on our phones during the “Celebrating Our Milestones” birthday luncheon. Talk about change! Carolyn Pittman, our International President, encouraged chapters to focus on the members, relationships, relevant programs, and meaningful projects. Changes to our Constitution were discussed. It was stressed by many that it is our responsibility as members to be informed about the proposed revisions to our Constitution so that we will be ready to vote next summer in Austin.
PROPOSE TO ME –The JOY of De-Cluttering
Do you have a drawer in your home that is the “catch all” for batteries, buttons, bills (paid and unpaid) and various items that have no home to speak of? Do you consciously avoid opening this drawer? Do you put off reorganizing that drawer knowing full well that you need to eliminate antiquated, non-functional items stored there?
The Constitution and International Standing Rules house items similar to the “catch all” drawer in our homes. Since September committees and members have been giving a “close” read to our governing documents. They have located excess information and have proposed changes that will streamline and reorganize the contents. They have considered simplifying committee names while modernizing the makeup and function of committees and boards. Some proposals have recognized that several items are best housed in DKG publications other than the Constitution. Others have eliminated components no longer needed due to technological venues that are in place.
New Resources Foster Chapter Health
The Chapter Check Up is designed for chapters to self-diagnose strengths and weaknesses. There are several advantages of regular health checkups, and the same is true for chapter checkups. The greatest benefit of an annual review is knowledge. By utilizing this optional tool, a chapter can establish a baseline that officers and members can use to detect unhealthy trends before they become risk factors or a threat to your chapter’s survival. By using this screening, you are taking steps to help your chapter be stronger and healthier.
Growing a stronger chapter can seem challenging and, sometimes, overwhelming. While there are no “cookie cutter” rules for creating a vibrant, enthusiastic and growing chapter, there are practices that are repeated again and again by successful chapters. Strategies for a Positive Chapter Environment offers a few tips collected from surveys, reports and informal research.
Both resources can be found at https://www.dkg.org/DKGMember/Resources/Chapter_Strengthening.aspx