If you weren’t able to attend the convention, you might be wondering—what do sea turtles have to do with Communication, Commitment, and Connection? Let me explain!
First, commitment. When a female sea turtle digs a nest, she has to pull her approximately 300-pound body out of the water and up above the beach to dig a nest and lay eggs, a process that can take several hours.
That’s an instinctual commitment, but it’s nonetheless extraordinary! In DKG, our dedication to uniting women educators worldwide in a genuine spiritual fellowship reflects our unwavering pledge to support one
another. This deep commitment fuels our efforts to honor those who have made or show potential
for exceptional service in education, and inspires us to all strive further.
Second, communication. Sea turtles communicate with one another (and other species) through body language, touch, and vocalizations. Their survival depends on this communication. In DKG, effective dialogue enables us to advance the professional interests of women in education, share vital information about societal issues, and endorse legislation that benefits education. Open and honest communication ensures that our voices are heard and our actions resonate, fostering a sense of shared purpose.
Finally, connection. Sea turtles and the organisms that comprise a coral reef are interdependent. A reef provides food and shelter for sea turtles, while turtles regulate algae growth, contribute to nutrient cycling, and keep sponge populations in balance. Building strong connections among women educators, whether through the recognition of achievements, supporting personal growth, or participating in programs of action—cultivates a vibrant community. This connection empowers us to initiate meaningful change, support
innovations, and stimulate the ongoing development of ourselves and others. As we step into the 2025–2027 biennium, let’s embrace Commitment, Communication, and Connection as guiding principles. I look forward to the journey ahead—and to seeing you “Under the C!”
First, commitment. When a female sea turtle digs a nest, she has to pull her approximately 300-pound body out of the water and up above the beach to dig a nest and lay eggs, a process that can take several hours.
That’s an instinctual commitment, but it’s nonetheless extraordinary! In DKG, our dedication to uniting women educators worldwide in a genuine spiritual fellowship reflects our unwavering pledge to support one
another. This deep commitment fuels our efforts to honor those who have made or show potential
for exceptional service in education, and inspires us to all strive further.
Second, communication. Sea turtles communicate with one another (and other species) through body language, touch, and vocalizations. Their survival depends on this communication. In DKG, effective dialogue enables us to advance the professional interests of women in education, share vital information about societal issues, and endorse legislation that benefits education. Open and honest communication ensures that our voices are heard and our actions resonate, fostering a sense of shared purpose.
Finally, connection. Sea turtles and the organisms that comprise a coral reef are interdependent. A reef provides food and shelter for sea turtles, while turtles regulate algae growth, contribute to nutrient cycling, and keep sponge populations in balance. Building strong connections among women educators, whether through the recognition of achievements, supporting personal growth, or participating in programs of action—cultivates a vibrant community. This connection empowers us to initiate meaningful change, support
innovations, and stimulate the ongoing development of ourselves and others. As we step into the 2025–2027 biennium, let’s embrace Commitment, Communication, and Connection as guiding principles. I look forward to the journey ahead—and to seeing you “Under the C!”
2025-2027 MSO President's Speech
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Meet Margie, Our 2025-2027 Mascot
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2025-2027 District Directors and Assistant Directors
SHIRLEY HAMILTON, northern district director
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Since becoming a member of Alpha Phi chapter in 2013, I have served my chapter as Webmaster, Newsletter Editor, Vice President, and am currently the President. Since attending LMS in 2015, I have been a member of several committees including Leadership Development, Bylaws and Standing Rules, Membership, and Policies and Procedures as well as serving as the Northern District Assistant Director. If elected, my hope is to encourage and inspire members to become more involved in DKG to support one another as well as support and mentor newer educators.
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DEBBIE ROGERS, northern district assistant director
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My DKG journey began on February 5, 2005, when I was initiated in Zeta Chapter in the Southern District. I served as chapter corresponding secretary from 2006 until 2010. In 2010, I began to serve my first of 2 consecutive bienniums as Zeta Chapter president. When I stepped down as chapter president, I continued to serve my chapter as Communications Chair until 2020. At the state level I have served on several committees: Membership(2007-2009), Professional Affairs(2009-2011), Educational Excellence 2011-2013, and State Professional Affairs Chair(2011-2013). One of my greatest DKG experiences was attending Zeta State Leadership Management 2011. I was honored when my chapter selected me as Women of Distinction 2015. I attended Zeta State meetings in 2011, 2013, 2015 and Southern District 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2016. I attended International Conference, NYC 2012. My educational background consists of Masters in Education from University of Southern MS 1983 and Bachelor of Science University of Southern MS 1978. I earned an Associate Degree, Mississippi Gulf Coast in 1976. I taught in Harrison County Schools, 1980-1991, and 2007-2022, and was Mathematics Department Chair 2010-2022. I briefly taught Math in Biloxi Public Schools 2002-2007. I was honored to be selected 2013 Harrison County School District Secondary Teacher of the Year and Gulfport Chamber f Commerce 2013 Secondary Teacher of the Year. After teaching public school 31 years I retired. My husband and I moved to Tunica, Mississippi, to be close to our children and grandchildren (especially the grandchildren). I am a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Robinsonville and a member of Tunica Women’s Club. I transferred my membership to Alpha Delta. I am currently a member of our chapter Finance committee and serve as chair of our Communications and Marketing Committee. I had the pleasure of attending my first Northern District meeting last year. I have enjoyed our chapter’s joint meeting with Beta Beta Chapter. I look forward to continuing my DKG journey in the Northern District!
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LINDSAY GRIFFIN, central district director
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I have been a member of Alpha Chi since 2012. Within my chapter I have held various positions. I am currently the chapter secretary, but I have served as second vice president and president. At the state level I am currently the Central District Assistant Director. I am also serving on the LMS committee. I have also served on the scholarship committee and membership committee. At the international level I have been featured in the Art Gallery and was on a panel at the International convention in New Orleans.
I have been teaching math at Mendenhall High School since 2000. I am married with two children, a daughter-in-law and one granddaughter. |
BETH MCKAY, central district assistant director
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Beth McKay began her Delta Kappa Gamma journey in 2005 when she was selected as Pi Chapter’s Grant-in-Aid. In 2006, after graduating from Millsaps with her degree in English, she began teaching at Pisgah High School. In 2010, Beth graduated with a M.A. English degree from Mississippi College and accepted an adjunct position with Hinds Community College. In 2011, she accepted an invitation to become a member of Pi where she has served on various committees such as the leadership development, red rose, communications, and chapter rules committees. In 2016, Beth was nominated for the position of corresponding secretary and began her DKG leadership journey. Beth has since served in the 2nd vice president, 1st vice president, and president positions. In 2023, she participated in Mississippi State Organization’s Leadership Management Seminar, and Beth was one of twenty to be selected for DKG’s 2024 Ignite. Beth loves to share her artistic talents; she has published articles in the Delta Kappa Gamma Bulletin: Collegial Exchange and has had photographs selected for the art gallery. Beth currently serves as Pi Chapter Past President, parliamentarian, and yearbook editor. In addition, she serves on MSO’s Headquarters Committee.
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CHRISTY SHEFFIELD, southern district director
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In 2013, I received an invitation to join the wonderful group of ladies of Alpha Alpha, MSO, DKG. These women have been the source of joy in my life as they have encouraged and mentored me. In 2019 I joined the ranks of many others as a National Board Certified Teacher. That same year I also achieved National Geographic Certified Educator status and was award the Woman of Distinction by my chapter. In 2020-2021, I received the highest honor of Teacher of the Year for my school. I currently teach middle school STEM and science at Petal Middle School where I serve as the PLC leader for the department and cohort leader for the district. I am working hard to increase STEM awareness by building my school’s first-ever STEM course as well as coaching our award-winning robotics teams. Alpha Alpha and MSO have given me many amazing opportunities to serve on both the chapter and state level. I currently serve as my chapter’s immediate past president and as the Assistant Southern District Director. If chosen, my goal would be to continue the legacy set forth by my predecessors in aiding our chapters by offering meaningful opportunities to grow both professionally and personally as we reach more key women educators.
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KARLA SMITH, southern district assistant director
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Karla Smith, the nominee for Assistant Southern District Director, is retired after having worked in public and higher education for 35 years. She retired as a social science instructor at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.
Karla Smith has been a member of Delta Kappa Gamma for 31 years. She was inducted into the Zeta Chapter in 1993. As a chapter member, she has served as President, 1st Vice-President, Chair of the Professional Growth and Services, Professional Affairs, and Scrapbook committees, and currently serves as Recording Secretary. At the state level, Karla has served as both a member and Chair of the Scholarship and World Fellowship Committees. She currently serves as the World Fellowship Representative on the Educational Excellence Committee. Karla has attended several international conventions and regional conferences, multiple state conventions and district meetings. In 1995, Karla was a participant in the Zeta State Leadership Management Seminar. She was honored as Zeta Chapter’s Woman of Distinction in 1999 and 2005. |
