Debra Wilson Purdy, a lecturer in the Department of Writing Studies, was named the Outstanding Chapter Advisor at Alpha Gamma Delta’s International Convention last summer. The convention is a bi-annual gathering of Alpha Gams from across the U.S. and Canada to honor sisters’ service to the fraternity and celebrate the successes of their nearly 200 collegiate and alumnae chapters and clubs. For the 52nd International Convention, almost 700 Alpha Gams gathered in Atlanta, Georgia.
The Outstanding Chapter Advisor award is presented to the chapter advisor who best inspires and supports a collegiate chapter. Alpha Gamma Delta International knows the success of their collegiate chapters is directly proportional to the support and dedication of its advisor teams. With the effective leadership of an inspiring chapter advisor, the members and chapter are better able to reach their highest potential.
Purdy received this award for her outstanding service to Boise State’s Delta Upsilon Chapter. In her nomination, the chapter president wrote: “From the moment I was a new member I knew who our chapter advisor was, this amazing woman who would have all the answers to our questions, as well as supporting the chapter. She did so eloquently from the sidelines, ensuring that, rather than gaining recognition for herself, she gave it to her executive council members. Continually, I was held to a high standard by her. She pushed me and expected a lot from me. This made me a better person and leader; her kind approach to accountability is remarkable. In triumphs, she was no stranger to complimenting and making her advisees feel seen. In faults, she was there to offer a hand up as well as feedback and support to keep us going.”