The Gamma Nu chapter of Alpha Chi Omega at San Diego State is so excited and proud to announce our new president, Allison Kerler. Allison is a sophomore from Orange County majoring in Business Management Information Systems, and says she is extremely humbled to be slated the fresh face of AXΩ for 2015. With 150 unique and fun girls to manage, Allison was kind enough to answer some questions:

How did AXΩ stand out to you when you were going through recruitment?
Alpha Chi Omega stood out to me while going through recruitment because everyone I talked to I felt an immediate friendship with. They were so welcoming, down to earth, and I felt as if I was already friends with everyone that I talked to. They didn't hold up a facade to try and impress me, but did whatever they could to make me feel right at home. I knew immediately that these corky, loving girls were going to be some of my best friends. 

On your bid-day, did you ever consider or think you would be the future face of such a respected chapter?

One year ago from this day I had never imagined being the leader of such an amazing group of girls. I always was interested in becoming a part of the executive board of this organization but becoming president is truly a blessing and honor. I am so excited to see how far our chapter has come from the day I decided to join until now,  and I am even more excited to see what the future years have in store for us. 

Who were your role models and inspiration for running?

My sister and father were highly involved in their greek communities on their college campuses. My sister Kelly served on her executive board for Zeta Tau Alpha at Cal Poly Pomona and my dad was one of the 12 founder of the Delta Chi chapter at State University New York at Buffalo. After listening to how much of an impact their greek experiences had on their lives, I knew I wanted to become involved in my greek community as well. 

What challenges do you think you will face, and how do you plan on overcoming them?

I would be oblivious to say that everything throughout my term as president will be smooth sailing, but if adversity were to approach I plan on being as level headed and realistic as possible. It is important for me to fight as hard as I can for the good of our chapter and always keep the interests of all 150 women I’m representing. One challenge I will most likely face is pleasing every member at all times. It can be difficult to be a leader of such a large organization, but I will do my best to keep our diverse group of girls as happy as possible, all while upholding the ideals and values our chapter stands for. 

Do you have any ideas/plans for AXO’s future or the legacy you want to leave?

Maya Monza and previous Alpha Chi Omega presidents have done an outstanding job shaping our chapter into what is it today. It is difficult to fill the shoes of someone who has left behind an incredible legacy in Alpha Chi Omega but my goal is to continue moving this chapter forward in the direction that she paved for our house. As president I plan to present opportunities for more members of the AXΩ chapter to get involved in leadership roles as well as roles outside of our own chapter. I hope to see every member of AXΩ involved in numerous clubs, community service programs, or even our panhellenic board to enhance not only our individual chapter but also our school as a whole. One of the greatest assets of our chapter is our diversity and I think by all getting involved in different organizations we are strengthening both our community and our personal character.

What is your advice to other members considering running for president?

One piece of advice I can give to someone choosing to run for president of their sorority is to lead by example. It is impossible to be a successful leader if you are not willing to uphold the values you stand for. Another piece of advice I can offer is try your best to get to know everyone in your greek organization. It is easier to make changes to your chapter when you truly understand everyones wants and needs. By building relationships with the people around you, you can earn their trust and in return, earn their respect. Don’t be afraid or intimidated to run, but feel challenged.