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Kappa Delta celebrates 50th Anniversary at A&M-Commerce

By Brent Lyday

Commerce – The Gamma Upsilon Chapter of the Kappa Delta sorority held their 50th anniversary celebration last weekend at Texas A&M University-Commerce to share memories with more than 200 members.

"'Out of such pure and simple beginnings grow great and wonderful things,' a quote from a Kappa Delta founder, fully exemplifies the history of our KD chapter on the Texas A&M University-Commerce campus for these past 50 years," said Tracey Wolfe, chair of the 50th anniversary committee.

The Kappa Delta alumnae gathered at the Alumni Center on Friday to kick off the events. A luncheon followed on Saturday at the Sam Rayburn Student Center with Lillian Leslie, chair of the Kappa Delta Foundation and former national vice president of Kappa Delta, serving as keynote speaker. Linda King, A&M-Commerce administrative assistant to the president, and Wolfe, were recognized for their service to the chapter. Through Wolfe's efforts, the chapter was able to present a bronze lion to the university, which will be placed near the northeast entrance of the Sam Rayburn Student Center.

Judy Castle Scott, a Gamma Upsilon alumna, also was honored for her induction into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame. Scott, who has been blind since childhood, received both her bachelor's and master's degrees from A&M-Commerce and is a member of Kappa Delta. She has worked tirelessly to improve life for all with limited vision.

Eleven of the original 19 charter members of the chapter were introduced, and the famous "Wizard of Oz" rush skit was recreated for entertainment. Jacquie Atchley Shackelford, who played Dorothy 50 years ago, was in attendance to play the role once again. The organization then held a "Come Home" party, settling at the Kappa Delta House and sharing stories, commenting on the highlights of the weekend, and looking through old memorabilia.