I went to Clarion so I know EXACTLY where you're coming from and the challenges you might have. Especially if there are still a lot of alumnae in the area. You definitely do not want to listen to the board member who wants to cut the alumnae out of events...because EVERYONE KNOWS EVERYONE and they'll be madder than wet hens if they find out about things second hand.
What age-ish are the alumnae who are causing problems? Their attitude more than likely is colored by their collegiate experience.
The best thing you can do is go to the alumnae who are being positive and ask for their help in getting these other women's heads out of their butts. Again, there may be longtime rivalries and interactions going on that actually have very little to do with the current sisters. The advantage of smaller chapters is that you know everyone inside and out...the disadvantage is that you know everyone inside and out.
Please feel free to PM me if you want.
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