National Conference

Eta Iota Sigma hosted the first National Conference on October 21-22, 2005 at Mt. Lebanon Baptist Encampment in Cedar Hill, Texas. This was the first event of its kind where both Texas Christian University and Southern Methodist University came together for a weekend of fun and fellowship. The theme for the weekend was "Foundations;" we examined scripture as the foundation for our every day walk. The guest speaker for the weekend was Ashley Smith, an adjunct professor at Criswell Bible College and a contributing writer for Women's Evangelical Library Commentary. Music for the conference was provided by worship leader Evan Wilson, husband to Becky Wilson (current NB President). Our philanthropy project was designed to provide assistance to victims of domestic violence because research has found that one in every three women in the United States are victimized by a domestic partner. Since the month of October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, we put together toiletry bags of shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, and mouthwash; items which are given to victims upon entering the shelter. Free time was spent dancing and playing board games into the early morning hours.

October 2005

National Conference

Eta Iota Sigma held the second National Conference on February 3-4, 2007 at Camp Hoblitzelle in Midlothian, Texas. The theme for the retreat was "A day at the S.P.A.: Spiritual Purpose Awakening." Our guest speaker Gail McWilliams, a renoun public speaker, recording artist, and author, shared her personal story of loosing her eyesight to challenge us to develop greater vision and purpose in our life with God. The TCU & SMU chapters' musicians combined to form a full worship team for the weekend. In addition to the guest lectures, we broke out into small groups for "mini spa" treatments, which involved pampering our bodies and spirits. We utilized Carter Blood Care for our philanthropy project, because the blood banks were experiencing a shortage and desperately needed donors. We donated many pints of blood collectively. Additionally, for those unable to participate in the blood drive, we wrote letters of encouragement to the women on Texas' death row. Just for fun, we had a massage therapist on site for lucky prize-winners, and enjoyed a "talk therapy" session at the campfire in the evening complete with marshmallow-roasting.

February 2007