What DKG means to me: Hope Hebert, Alpha Epsilon, Southwest District

 My name is Hope Stoute Hebert and I was initiated into the Alpha Epsilon Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma on September 26^th, 2007.  It was such an honor to be asked to join this organization by my third grade teacher, Juliette Langlinais.  I was thrilled that she thought I would be an asset to the Alpha Epsilon Chapter.  On that day my life would change forever.  Just eight months later I would be elected to be President of Alpha Epsilon and I took on the job with a smile and lots of enthusiasm.  I guess I did a good job because I was elected to be President again.  I have to say it has been an extraordinary experience to be President for two bienniums, and a job I have thoroughly enjoyed every second of the four years I have been President of our Chapter.  I was able to host a District Meeting, go to three State Conventions, present at a State Convention, attend Bea Davis Leadership training, attend many District Meetings, serve on the State Membership Committee, and Chair the State Personal Growth and Services Committee.  I have been a busy girl but this came with many rewards.  Personal Growth, confidence, new friendships, a bond with fellow educators, and quality time with women who have influenced my life to make me all that I am today are just a few of the rewards.  I have three beautiful daughters and a husband who are very supportive of what they call my extracurricular activities.  I give a lot of time to Delta Kappa Gamma and the Junior League of Lafayette.  I know the girls admire my volunteer service and offer to help often with tasks for meetings and events.  I feel that they are learning a valuable lesson on giving back to community, education, and being of service to others.  I want them to be proud of the things I do, just as I am proud of all their accomplishments.  Time is a challenge for me but I have learned to manage it well over the past few years.  I just always remember to put family first and then the rest just falls into place.  I have an overwhelming feeling of accomplishment when I think back on the past five years as a member of Delta Kappa Gamma.  Wow, the places I’ve been, friends I’ve made, and opportunities I’ve had have been tremendous.  I truly love this organization and I can’t wait to see what the future in it will bring my way.