Indianapolis, July 17, 2024 – With an unwavering commitment to Kappa Delta (KD), Beth Martin Langford has devoted her life to upholding the Sorority’s values of friendship and loyalty, personal integrity, lifelong learning and selfless service. She is authentic, endearing and relatable, and she is deeply committed to KD’s success and in turn how KD contributes to the success of each member.
It is for her visionary leadership and personal generosity that Beth has been recognized as the 2024 Outstanding Volunteer. Her award will be presented on Tuesday, Aug. 20, during the FFE Awards of Distinction Program, part of FFE Seminar.
In support of her nomination, Kappa Delta Sorority and Foundation Executive Director Maggie Waples wrote, “Beth’s leadership qualities are exceptional, and her impact on the organization is profound and enduring. Her own personal giving has inspired others to invest in the Foundation. Her sisters, Kappa Delta leaders and the board unanimously admire her, and Kappa Delta is indeed fortune to have her transform our Foundation.”
Volunteering at the board level for more than 20 years, Beth served on the Kappa Delta Foundation Board from 2015-24, including as Foundation Chair, and Kappa Delta Sorority’s National Council from 2001-15, including as National President. “One of Kappa Delta’s biggest strengths is the collaborative partnership between the Sorority and Foundation boards, a partnership Beth nurtured as National President and then as Foundation Board Chair,” said Sara Cullins Roach, Kappa Delta Foundation director of development.
During Beth’s Foundation Board tenure, she was instrumental in the development of the Imagine Her Future scholarship campaign, KD’s first capital campaign since 1997. In preparation, she thoughtfully curated a strong group of volunteers to support the Foundation Board and staff in planning and did the same in selecting a steering committee to lead the four-year initiative.
Through curveballs to the campaign — including a feasibility study showing the time might not be right and launching the campaign in the midst of a worldwide pandemic and societal unrest — Beth’s determination was steady, as she believed so deeply in the need to support young women in their academic goals. Her savvy leadership and uncanny ability to recruit volunteers and donors inspired generations of Kappa Delta’s to give. Michelle Rabideau, current Foundation Board Chair, shares “Beth’s personal generosity has served as a beacon of inspiration, motivating others to invest in the foundation’s Imagine Her Future campaign. Her unwavering commitment to our sorority community has not only enriched the lives of countless individuals but has also strengthened the bonds of sisterhood that define our organization.” In 2023, KD celebrated the conclusion of the Imagine Her Future campaign which raised $4.8 million over four years, nearly twice the original $2.5 million goal, in conjunction with their 125th anniversary.
In addition to this historic fundraising, Beth paved the way for an emergency scholarship fund that awarded 42 scholarships during the pandemic and transformed to Kappa Delta’s current need-based scholarship program.
“One of the most recognizable and respected names in our sisterhood, the confidence in Beth’s leadership and her integrity compelled many to give to the foundation through the years. Her commitment to making calls and asking directly for gifts is one of the hallmarks of her work ethic. She is a doer,” said Pamela Nix, former Kappa Delta executive director (2011-21).
The Foundation for Fraternal Excellence is proud to present Beth with the 2024 Outstanding Volunteer Award and looks forward to celebrating her servant leadership and lifelong commitment to Kappa Delta this summer.
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ABOUT THE FOUNDATION FOR FRATERNAL EXCELLENCE
The Foundation for Fraternal Excellence (FFE) cultivates a culture of care, provides connections and supports research across the fraternal community. Often known as the “heart” of a fraternal organization, foundations and fundraising professionals come together to comprise membership and benefit from programs, services and resources for fraternal fundraising. FFE also provides operational support for established, new and emerging fraternal foundations and works hand-in-hand with several fraternal communities to strengthen and improve the entire fraternity/sorority experience.
