It is finally time for me to actually say everything that has been bottled up inside of me for the last year. So everyone sit back and relax, because I’ll be a while. Quite honestly, receiving this office last year was totally unexpected. I was so happy and in shock. Then I telephoned my parents after the meeting and got the reality check. “Susan, what are you doing? You don’t need to do this. It can’t possibly be done. Why can’t you give it back?” Needless to say, with that in mind, I began the daunting task of fulfilling the office of Vice President for Colonization and Membership.

Now, one year later, I have proven to my parents that even with my fifth year pharmacy curriculum, I have succeeded in accomplishing my goals. Goals that included helping with the progress of the University of Louisville colony, manual reviews, and the creation of a District History Book. I proved to them that my system of organization, my tenacity at pursuing the ideals of our sorority, and my positively perky attitude worked, because I am standing here in front of you all today a proud member of Tau Beta Sigma and a sucker of reverse psychology.

I telephoned my parents earlier this week to let them know where I would be this weekend as I had throughout this year. My mother reminded me of what she had said to me fifteen minutes after I was sworn in to my office. Then she and my father told me how proud they were of me. They also informed me, that I had yet again proven a typical Lingenfelter trait straight out of our family history. When told to do one thing, we stubbornly do the opposite.

My parents have always supported and loved me, but this past year they knew it was about time for me to leave the nest. I start my Doctor of Pharmacy rotations in July and I graduate from Ohio Northern University in May 2001. They wanted me to demonstrate to the world what I can contribute. They wanted me to stand on my own against the odds. They wanted me to become self reliant and dependent on my own courage, wit, and intelligence. They succeeded in that and I owe them more than thanks and love. I owe them the ability to say I am who I am because they let me become me, Susan Ann Lingenfelter of Etters, Pennsylvania.

Now on to the five wonderful individuals that have blessed my life, and encouraged me along my path of self-reliance. First Kelly, a kindred, bubbly energetic show of fortitude is an aura that surrounds you. You helped take me under your wings and showed me the ropes of being a district officer and informed me how to correctly use a CB. Michelle, you really know how to do your hair, and you know how to keep everyone’s spirits up high in the clouds. Trudy, you showed me an uplifting example of an individual with a true faith in God. You never lost your faith, even while waiting in the Lima, Ohio Cracker Barrel for AAA to come and unlock your car because the keys were in the ignition with the car running. That is a definite testament to your strength. All three of you have been a loving, supportive, and beautiful group of sisters. I am proud to share the bonds of Tau Beta Sigma with you.

Cheryl, I am so going to miss laughing with you after I slid/fell down the stairs in your house. Take care of Kobe and have fun keeping your dilemma between IU and MSU apparel straight. Lisa, I am going to miss the e-mails and phone conversations with you. I most importantly am going to miss the education of the Veggie Tale Songs and the sneezing fit I got in your apartment (not because of your cats, but because I forgot to take my medication). Cheryl and Lisa I want to thank both of you for opening up your homes and hearts to bring me in under your umbrella of love.

All five of you have such beautiful spirits. You guided me, even if you didn’t know it, and I thank you for that. My prayers are with all of you for your bright futures. On the subject of the future, if you need any medical advice or advice on drugs, let me know. I am soon going to be a legal drug pusher.

Finally, last but most importantly, Gamma Mu chapter. You have been everything to me since 1995 and I know that if I had never joined, I would have missed out on the best five years of my life. Those of you present have seen me at my best and my worst: Anne Marie-at my slap happy beekerspeak, Laura-at my I can’t feel my lips anymore to play my French horn, Rosie-at my we are going to have a senior banquet come hell or high water, Jen-at my you play the violin too, and Stacy-at my you know exactly what I am going through up here.) Susan Stephens, together we became Gamma Mu sisters and together we will remain sisters. Thanks to all of Gamma Mu chapter for your love and support. In my heart you are the real sisters I never had.

Respectfully submitted in the happy, merry, jolly good bond,

Susan Ann Lingenfelter

Vice President for Colonization and Membership