Fraternity Housing Corporation

MOM KNOWS BEST

We open the red doors and invite you to get to know a a few of the FHC's House Directors

Sometimes known as "House Moms," House Directors are women who live full time in FHC properties. From coordinating move-in/ out and planning work schedules to managing vendors and often providing a much-needed motherly ear, they oversee countless logistical aspects of the chapter house. In one of the toughest years on record, their hard work and dedication has been inspiring.

Staying Connected

Now more than ever, the FHC knows it is crucial for its House Directors to connect with one another and the organization. In March 2020, the FHC began hosting House Director “Huddles” to provide opportunity for face-to-face conversation and communication. Over the summer, the Huddles became more frequent as House Directors needed education on the FHC’s COVID-19 Safe on Purpose Resources. Now, Huddles serve as a place for the FHC team to share announcements, resources and positivity among our House Directors. We are so grateful for them and this opportunity to connect! “Property Manager 24/7 for an international fraternal organization, making home away from home the best, safest and most enjoyable experience for today's collegians.”

Michelle Pilon, House Director at Gamma Beta-Florida State University

What is the most rewarding part of being a House Director?

“I really enjoy the problem-solving aspects to the job—unless it involves water in an area where water should not be! I find it so gratifying how the women can be so appreciative of simple things, like a lightbulb change, lighting the fireplace, speaking to the chef for a member who is shy. It's definitely a great job for someone who likes paying it forward!” - Nancy Schroer, House Director at Sigma–Univ. of Illinois

“People are always curious about my job. I have a long career working with young people in a variety of non-profit and educational settings and have fallen in love with the young women, staff and my role in the organization. I enjoy living with a house full of inspiring young women! Walking alongside them as they discover who they want to be and where they want to go in life is a privilege. It brings a lot of joy to my life and purpose to my vocation.” - Marianne Van Winkle, House Director at Delta Epsilon–University of California-Los Angeles

What has been the biggest change as a House Director during COVID-19?

“It has been much harder to get to know the women this year because they mostly stay in their rooms and no longer eat in the dining room. I miss chatting with them over a meal and hearing the latest scoop. I hope we are able to resume group meals soon." - Helen Kyneur, House Director at Beta Delta–Indiana Univ.

A Day in the Life of a House Director

Michelle Pilon—or “Mama Mia” as she is known at the Gamma Beta house at Florida State University—gives us an inside look at her typical day:

MORNING

• Turn porch lights off and foyer lights on • Make (and sip) coffee for members and staff • Respond to email and complete reports or paperwork

MEALTIME

• Ensure dining room areas are sanitized and ready for service • Greet non-residents arriving for meals and visit with members about their day.

AFTERNOON

• Run errands or continue current projects • Handle any custodialmaintenance or vendor issues • Check security cameras as needed

EVENING

• Plan or work on upcoming

Mama Mia surprises and updates • Walk the perimeter and check points of entry • Lights out with some soothing music or a great movie

SWEETENING THE DEAL

Though most FHC properties with House Directors have a separate chef, many HDs enjoy preparing special treats for collegiate members. 

“For Galentine’s Day in February 2019, I decorated the dining room, baked some goodies and made chocolate-covered strawberries. I love Galentine’s Day because it is nice to have a day dedicated to appreciating your girlfriends.” – Conner Richberg (Epsilon)

“It is real easy for me to find a reason to display a table of delights. My all-time favorite was baking for Chi Omega's philanthropic event last year. We entered a salted caramel apple snickers cake.” – Michelle Pilon (Gamma Beta)

“Chef Carlos and I enjoy working alongside the Chapter at the end of each year to celebrate graduating members at the last chapter dinner. We make the dinner extra special, and love cheering on the women to go out into the world and do great things.” – Marianne Van Winkle (Delta Epsilon)

MEET CONNER & LYLA!

Conner Richberg began her career with the FHC in 2019 as a House Director at Alpha–Syracuse University, but she recently made the move from a very snowy Syracuse, New York, to a less snowy Lexington, Kentucky, to serve as House Director at the newly renovated Epsilon home at the University of Kentucky. She didn't have to make the long trip alone. She was joined by her Australian Shephard, Lyla.

How has having Lyla in the house shaped your experience as a House Director?

Lyla is very important to me. Being able to have her with me has definitely enhanced my experience. Lyla helps me connect with members as well. They love to stop by my suite to visit us. This year I let members decide Lyla's Halloween costume. I put two options on my door and let the women vote. I kept the winner a secret and they had to come see us on Halloween to see which costume won!

How does Lyla enjoy living in the sorority house? She absolutely loves it!

She enjoys the attention from members and is always quick to grab her favorite toy and bring it to them as a gift. When members are away in the summer, I find her waiting at the door for someone to knock and give her pets. At first it was a big adjustment for her having so many people coming and going at all hours, but now she gets restless when the house is quiet.

What is your favorite part about being a House Director?

Getting to watch the women make memories and bonds that will last a lifetime. When I see them all gathered around the table eating and laughing it makes my heart happy. Some of my most cherished moments have been with my sorority sisters.

Three of the FHC's 22 House Directors are initiated members. They are Kristi Cormack, Epsilon Nu–University of Central Oklahoma, Marlys Headley, Theta Omega–University of South Carolina, and JoAnne Lamb, Beta Alpha–Nebraska Wesleyan University