Celebrating Women's History Month | Christine Clifford, Beta Chi-Denver
By Archivist/Historian Diane Hall, Eta Upsilon-Drexel
During Women's History Month, we celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of extraordinary women who have left a lasting impact on society. Among these barrier-breakers are the Notable Delta Gammas, who have advanced our mission of doing good and left lasting legacies in various fields, from business and politics to arts and philanthropy. This month serves as a reminder to honor their achievements, inspire future generations, and reflect on the collective power of women who continue to shape our world.
One of the founding values of Delta Gamma was hope. The first Delta Gamma badge was the H pin, which stood for hope. Christine Clifford, Beta Chi-Denver, embodies the power hope can have even in the most trying circumstances. A driven entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker Christine’s accomplishments have come in the face of personal health challenges.
In 1994 Christine was a married mother of two and working as the Senior Executive Vice President of SPAR Marketing Services. Then the news came that she was diagnosed with stage III metastatic breast cancer. At that time, the 5-year survival rate for women was around 20%.
As well-wishes, gifts and messages of support poured in Christine realized she had not received one thing that made her laugh. She began drawing and writing, with a focus on humor, about her diagnosis. Not long after, she boldly walked into a local Barns and Noble and pitched an idea to a clerk: books of humor about cancer. The clerk’s horrified response did not deter Christine.
Believing laughter could help the healing process, she quit her corporate job and became a full-time author. Of the eight books she has published, five have been about her battle with cancer. Her first book, Not Now I’m Having A No Hair Day, was published in 1996. She then founded her first company, The Cancer Club, to offer resources and support to those diagnosed with cancer. She then started The Christine Clifford Celebrity Golf Tournament, the proceeds of which are donated to breast cancer research. In 2013, her cancer returned and while in treatment, she wrote the book Laugh 'Til It Heals: Notes from the World's Funniest Cancer Mailbox.
Outside of her work in support of those who have been diagnosed with cancer, Christine also offers support to those going through divorce. In 2010, she founded Divorcing Divas with a friend. In 2011, they partnered with a shelter in Minneapolis for abused women. Today, she owns and operates Christine Clifford Enterprises. She has received numerous awards for her work including receiving the Order of the Delta Gamma Rose in 2002.
Is there a Delta Gamma you think should be included on our Notable Delta Gamma’s list? Submit their name for consideration by filling out this form.