The Emerald Newsletter | Kappa Delta Chi Sorority Winter 2016 | Page 26

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Kemah, Texas (Dec. 7, 2016) – Kappa Delta Chi Sorority Inc. is mourning the passing of Alpha Epsilon Chapter charter sister Valerie Estrada Campos, 37, who passed on November 17, 2016 from liver complications. Valerie was born on

April 15, 1979 and attended Baylor University and studied forensic science. While attending, she was a charter member for the KDChi, Alpha Epsilon Chapter that initiated in Spring 2004. She most recently worked in the Veteran's Affairs in Houston, Texas where she contributed countless hours to helping rehabilitate veterans from all walks of life. Valerie is survived by her two children Kayden and Dora. She will be inducted into KDChi's Omega Chapter at our next National Conference in Orlando, Florida.

The following dedication is from a KDChi Alpha Epsilon Alumna sister and co-worker of Valerie's, Janisa Del Hierro, who wanted to share some special memories about her dear friend.

"Today I honor the memory of Valerie Campos as a Kappa Delta Chi sister, co-worker, and most of all a great friend. I have known Valerie since the fall of 2004 when we both attended Baylor University. She and I were both working towards degrees in Forensic Science and spent countless hours studying in the library with other sisters and students. Our study group became our family and community away from home as well as a support group that got us through the struggles and challenges of

college life. She told me the most hilarious stories and always made us laugh.

Our friendship grew even closer as we spent a great deal of time involved in sorority events and meetings. She was a charter member of the Alpha Epsilon chapter where she served as Treasurer, a position she would pass on to me when she

graduated. She eventually became my “big sister” and not only mentored me as a sister but helped me transition into college life at Baylor. The sorority served as a way to give back to the Waco community.

We participated in several service projects and volunteered our time working with the local homeless shelters, Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army, the Susan B. Coleman foundation, and also participated in “Stepping Out”, Baylor’s school wide

service day. I know Valerie also became involved working and training with the Advocacy Center for Crime Victims & Children. This

organization was very important to her as it provided a 24-hour crisis hotline as well as counseling and case management for crime victims. She regularly volunteered and became part of the suicide hotline personnel. She was always looking for a way to give back. Not only was she a good and hardworking student, but her loyalty, honesty, and integrity made me consider her one of my closest friends.

After graduation, she moved back to her hometown of Houston and later became an employee at the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA). She started a family and even managed to complete her graduate degree in Counseling while raising her children and working full time. When I found out about her new job, I knew it was a

perfect fit for her because she was always looking for a way to help others. Coincidentally, I also was lucky enough to get a job with the VA at their Waco Regional Office in August of 2007. In July of 2010,

I transferred to the Houston Regional Office, and was reunited with my close friend. Over the course of my time at the VA, I saw Valerie excel. She took her job seriously and performed it well, helping countless Veterans. Due to her job performance, she was selected to be a quality review specialist where she regularly led station training. In the twelve years of knowing Valerie, she always managed to keep her friendly and professional persona.

It was heartbreaking to learn Valerie’s health had declined. She fought an extremely brave fight, and it is difficult to say goodbye to such a wonderful person at such a young age. In these difficult times, I extend my sincerest condolences to Valerie’s children and family. Although she is gone, I think it is important to remember all of the great moments we shared and honor the life she had. She did so

much with her short time on this earth. She was a kind, loving, and deserving person. She helped so many people in her community to include women, children, and Veterans. We can take comfort in knowing she is in a better place that is free of pain, struggle, and illness. However, her fun loving spirit, laughter, and friendship will be greatly missed".