Dr. Darcy Russell receives national award from Zeta Tau Alpha

Dr. Darcy L. Russell, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas, received the Louise Kettler Helper Memorial Award June 29, at Zeta Tau Alpha’s biennial convention in Orlando, Florida.

Zeta Tau Alpha’s National Council presents this award to an alumna whose service and achievements have made notable contributions to the progress of the fraternity and the fraternity/sorority world. Russell has represented Zeta Tau Alpha in multiple National Panhellenic Conference leadership positions since 2007. In the 2017-2018 academic year, she chaired the conference’s Structure Think Tank, guiding the conference to a decision designed to preserve the future of the sorority experience. She is also a member of the NPC Strategic Planning Committee and Release Figure Method Leadership Team.

“I have loved being a member of Zeta Tau Alpha since 1976,” Russell said. “To be recognized this way by my sisters literally means the world to me. It has been an honor to serve this organization.”

In addition, Russell has served ZTA as National Academic Achievement chairman from 2008 to 2018, implementing innovative programming to help members excel in the classroom. She previously served ZTA for six years as a province president, overseeing collegiate chapters in Kansas and Missouri.

“Darcy is respected by all 26 NPC organizations for her dependability, dedication, and discernment,” said former Zeta Tau Alpha National President Carolyn Hof Carpenter when presenting the award. “When she makes a presentation, you immediately notice her calm, thoughtful demeanor and appreciate her ability to talk through difficult processes in a manner everyone can understand.”

“Dr. Russell’s dedication to ZTA as a member, a mentor, and a national leader reflects her commitment to student success in the classroom and beyond,” said Baker University President Lynne Murray. “She is so deserving of this national recognition, and I congratulate her.”