Carolyn K. Sowers was honored by Beta Sigma Phi Sorority as the recipient of International’s Golden Circle Ritual on March 17, 2026.
This candlelight ritual is conducted as an honor to recognize exemplary members who have contributed 50 years of steadfast devotion to Beta Sigma Phi. The honoree is applauded for her loyal devotion to the organization and for consistently upholding the ideals of the group, with members in all states and many countries of the world.
Joyce O. Morgan officiated at the ritual with Phyllis Durham and Sue Warden serving as assistants. The ritual evening was attended by Sowers’ Alpha Mu Master Chapter members along with special guest Candace Johnston, daughter of the honoree. At the close of the ritual, Sowers was presented with a 50-year pin, the Golden Circle Certificate and a dozen yellow roses, the sorority flower.
Sowers pledged to the sorority in March of 1976 and has contributed extraordinary service and leadership through the committees she has chaired and the offices she has held, including as president for numerous years. In addition, she has chaired the area Founder’s Day events on numerous occasions. She has received the honors of Order of the Rose, the Silver Circle and the prestigious International Award of Distinction, the highest honor possible for an active member who has consistently demonstrated outstanding service to Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. Sowers has also been selected as Woman of the Year several times and as Valentine Queen. She is currently serving as Chapter Treasurer, Ways and Means Chair, Publicity Chair and on the Service Committee.
The honoree retired as Human Resources Coordinator from Virginia Tech, and resides in Christiansburg with husband Wayne, where they enjoy their family of two married children and spouses, three grandchildren and a great granddaughter.
Beta Sigma Phi
