The Great Torch Pass
Jaynellen Behre Jenkins, Phi Beta (East Stroudsburg U), International Vice President
My phone nearly blew up when the AOII Executive Board potential candidates list was released in December. The common theme in these texts was, “Why aren’t you seeking re-election as International Vice President?” One even asked, “Are you okay? There’s no way you’ve reached the six-year term limit already!” But alas, the calendar does not lie!
Every biennium, we gather at International Convention to pass the torch of AOII leadership. What an incredible opportunity, important responsibility, and absolute joy it has been to serve the Fraternity in this capacity! Like our Founders, Council will convene in June, with reverence for AOII traditions, standards, and hopes as we chart the future of the Fraternity.
In 2019, I wrote that impactful leadership happens both on the dance floor and from the balcony. My AOII XB balcony view allowed me to shape policies aligned with our vision for the Fraternity’s future. Watching programs unfold—such as the Alumnae Leadership Conference (ALC), Camp AOII, and Volunteer Summit—has been a source of immense pride. These innovations happened not only through the work of our staff and boards but also because AOII Council embraced bylaw amendments enabling greater opportunities. Our collective torch pass in business sessions at International Convention ensures AOII’s legacy remains relevant and impactful for future generations.
Experiences on the “dance floor” keep Executive Board members connected to AOII at the grassroots level. The Executive Board’s Membership Connection work has allowed me to engage with AOIIs at large forums like ALC and celebrate local milestones, such as Pi Delta Chapter at the University of Maryland’s Centennial. Soon, I will celebrate Xi Chapter’s 100th Anniversary at the University of Oklahoma and Gamma Phi Chapter’s 10th Anniversary at Seton Hall University. These milestones happen because of the ongoing torch pass between dedicated collegiate officers and alumnae volunteers.
Some AOII sisters mark my Executive Board journey through the milestones of my children. Molly was born when I was a Network Specialist, and Sally took her first steps at Alpha Nu Chapter at Ramapo College of New Jersey. Eighteen years later, the 2024-2025 school year has been filled with NPC initiations across Molly’s circle of friends, including her friend Kaitlyn’s initiation into AOII at Pi Delta. As I write this, Molly’s own initiation into Pi Beta Phi is just a week away. Recently, she attended a Campus Panhellenic workshop for new members about the sorority experience. When I asked her to reflect, she shared:
“A sorority woman values the integrity of her organization. She is dedicated to making an impact on her community. The leadership opportunities she embraces will open doors that may not have otherwise been available. She does this by making meaningful connections with the sisters in her chapter and across the Campus Panhellenic.”
What a powerful example of a torch pass within her Panhellenic community! Isn’t that exactly what we strive to do for our sisters in AOII?
As my term of service comes to a close, I want to remind you that I was simply another girl from Bloomfield, New Jersey, who fell in love with the purpose and meaning of Alpha Omicron Pi. I was mentored well and inspired to lead. You, too, can let your light shine through AOII and serve the greater world around us. We are counting on your leadership as you pass the torch to AOII generations to come!