Growing in Leadership

Joining Alpha Chi Omega offers numerous benefits, including growing leadership skills like Vanessa Hill (Delta Psi, University of California, Santa Barbara) did. Not only did Vanessa serve as her collegiate chapter’s president, but she also extended her leadership as Panhellenic president! Learn about the leadership skills you can develop through Alpha Chi Omega through this Q&A with Vanessa!

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GET INVOLVED?

I remember during my fall semester as a freshman in Alpha Chi Omega seeing all of the seniors doing amazing things – whether it was in Alpha Chi in their leadership roles, being club presidents, having these really outstanding internships and jobs, or applying for master's degrees. I think that really set the tone for me of, “Wow, I'm so inspired by these women, and they're helping me accomplish my goals. Now, I want to be able to provide that for others as well.”

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO BE PANHELLENIC PRESIDENT?

The Panhellenic board serves as this all-star team, almost like the best leadership from every chapter. We really tried to utilize the strengths from each chapter to benefit the community and other chapters on campus. As president, I and the Panhellenic board would meet with chapter presidents, and I took on a role as almost a mentor to them. I also worked closely with other council presidents including Interfraternity Council (IFC) and The United Sorority & Fraternity Council (USFC) on even bigger community issues beyond Panhellenic. We really focused on building community, educational experiences and creating unity between the councils.

WHAT HAVE YOU GAINED FROM YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLES?

I’ve never felt more empowered than being on the Panhellenic board. All these smart, passionate women coming together to better our Panhellenic-wide community above their own chapter inspired me daily. I’m still friends with each of them even after graduation, and without being on the Panhellenic board, I would have never had these cross-chapter friendships!

I feel like I have gained confidence, both from the Panhellenic and Alpha Chi community, in moments where I have spoken up and have been supported, or when people rally around what you have to say. I used to have to speak in front of IFC, or a large group of college males, and sometimes that took a lot of courage and confidence. In my post-graduation role at my job now, I’ve received praise for having confidence and speaking up in meetings.

WHAT SKILLS DO YOU THINK ARE IMPORTANT FOR LEADERS?

I think empathy is really important. Being a real, strong woman means being an empathetic person and approaching the problems that may come to you as a leader with empathy. I think it goes a long way, especially when dealing with problems but also showing recognition toward others.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SISTERS WHO HOPE TO BECOME LEADERS?

My one piece of advice would be to be a “Yes Girl”. You never know what opportunities can come by just saying “yes,” whether it's a sister asking for help with a sisterhood event or the recruitment chair needing help with a recruitment round. You could gain leadership skills or networking just from being able to help someone out. Just be open-minded to opportunities that come your way!