The South Bend Alumnae Chapter, founded in 1955, established a local Delta Academy about a decade ago. Walker says the group relies on input from the national chapter and their own ideas in planning the monthly gatherings that attract a dozen or so girls ages 11 to 17.

"We talk about different topics -- manners, school, other things.''

The purpose, Walker says, "is to make girls feel good about themselves.''

To that end, there are book club discussions, projects to emphasize math ... more >>