WHEREAS,  Alpha Delta Kappa was founded in 1947 as an international honorary organization of women educators dedicated to educational excellence, altruism and world understanding; and

WHEREAS,  Alpha Delta Kappa was founded by Agnes Shipman Robertson, Marie Neal, Marion Southall and Hattie Poppino, 4 visionary women who sought to recognize and support the professional efforts of outstanding women educators; and

WHEREAS,  the Maine Beta Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa was established in January 1963 and provides opportunities for leadership development through workshops, conferences and conventions; and

WHEREAS,  the Maine Beta Chapter members of Alpha Delta Kappa combine their energies and talents toward enriching their lives and the lives of others through participation in community-based altruistic projects; and

WHEREAS,  local organizations have benefited from the Maine Beta Chapter's monetary contributions and service, which have included funding a yearly high school scholarship, aiding other community members, organizations and veterans and sponsoring families at Christmas; and

WHEREAS,  the Maine Beta Chapter also supports the local food pantry in Gorham and gives book donations to Camp Sunshine in Casco, a retreat for children with life-threatening illnesses and their parents, and sends gifts to needy children through Samaritan's Purse's Operation Christmas Child; and

WHEREAS,  the Maine Beta Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa is celebrating its 50th Anniversary with a ceremony on Tuesday, April 23, 2013; now, therefore, be it