President's Note - Sigma Phi Omega

Amanda E Sokan, PhD, LL.B

September 2024

Diane Martin, PhD, MSL, MA

Sigma Phi Omega Immediate Past-President

AGEISM AWARENESS WEEK CHALLENGE: LET’S TAKE ACTION!

In honor of Ageism Awareness Week, Sigma Phi Omega is excited to announce a special “Ageism Awareness and Action” Challenge for all our Sigma Phi Omega chapters. This challenge is an opportunity for each of us to raise awareness about ageism and take meaningful steps toward promoting a more inclusive society.

In recognition of National Ageism Awareness Day 2024— Wednesday, October 9, 2024, the executive board of Sigma Phi Omega challenges every chapter to create and implement an initiative that addresses ageism in their communities. The goal is to educate, advocate, and engage others in the fight against ageism. is Here are some ways your chapter can get involved:

Host a Workshop or Webinar on ageism, featuring discussions about its impact and solutions.
Launch a Social Media Campaign using the hashtag #EndAgeism, where you can share facts, stories, and calls to action.
Facilitate Intergenerational Conversations that bring together younger and older generations to discuss shared experiences and combat stereotypes.
Advocate for Age-Inclusive Policies by writing to local government officials or institutions.
Partner with Local Organizations to work on a project that promotes inclusivity for older adults.

What’s in it for Your Chapter?

A chance to win a $200 prize for your chapter. Each chapter is encouraged to share their activities, successes, and challenges by video or in writing and with pictures and enter to win of either the Video award or Service Project award. For more information about these awards, visit the Sigma Phi Omega awards page on our website: https://deepskyblue-magpie-968235.hostingersite.com/awards/

The entry portal will open in November. The deadline to submit entries for these awards will be February 2025. Winners will be announced at the annual Sigma Phi Omega Business & Awards meeting in April. More information will be provided once the portal opens for entries.

We encourage you to be creative and bold in your approach! This is an incredible opportunity to make a difference in your local community and help reshape the conversation around aging.

How to Get Started:

Plan your activities for Ageism Awareness Week using the ideas above or others you feel passionate about.
Engage your chapter members and encourage them to actively participate.
Document your initiative by video, words, and pictures
Have your initiative posted on our social media sites! Send videos and pictures to us at spogerontologymembership@gmail.com
Prepare and submit your entry to our awards portal for a chance to win $200 for your chapter.

Together, we can lead the way in challenging ageism and creating a society that respects and values people of all ages. We look forward to seeing the incredible work each of you will do!

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Happy Holidays SPO Family!

In this season of warmth and joy, I find myself reflecting on the importance of staying connected with those who hold a special place in our hearts. I invite you to join me in making the holidays truly meaningful by sharing precious moments with your friends and family. Take time to strengthen family bonds, create lasting memories, and appreciate the wisdom and experiences of the older adults in your life.

Engaging in activities like listening to stories, cooking together, or simply sharing quiet moments reinforces the value of intergenerational relationships. These moments not only bring joy and laughter but also serve as a bridge between generations, fostering understanding and a sense of continuity.

In our fast-paced world, it is easy to get caught up in our to-do lists and the festivities of the season. But the gift of time is most precious. I hope we can all slow down and prioritize the older adults in our lives in meaningful ways. Let us be present and attentive listeners, offer a helping hand, and express gratitude for the love and guidance they’ve provided us throughout the years.

I wish you and your loved ones a holiday season filled with love, connection, and cherished moments.

As we look ahead to 2024, I want to call your attention to our next conference collaboration:

The 2024 Southern Gerontological Society conference will be held April 2-6 at the Hyatt Regency in Greenville, S.C.

Abstract Submissions

Your abstracts for presentations are due at 11:59PM on Monday, January 8th! Apply here: https://southerngerontologicalsociety.org/meeting-abstracts.html

Conference Registration

Registration is open, with an early bird discount in effect through February 24. SPO members receive SGS member rates. SPO students receive the SGS student rate. Check out more conference-specific information, including the conference domains which are timely and relevant, on the conference page here: https://southerngerontologicalsociety.org/meeting.html