Spring 2020
7
A Beacon of Goodness in the World by WENDY LABRECHE PRATT, Massachusetts Beta
Shortly after arriving at the University of Massachusetts, I realized I needed some way to make such a big place feel smaller. At that time, the student population was larger than three times the size of my hometown! Two friends living in my residence hall showed me that sorority life was one way to find a home on campus. Pi Phi became my home during my four years at UMass and gave me some of my closest friends for life. One of the friends from my hall — fellow Massachusetts Beta KATHY OUIMET PERRIN — became my big sister, and we’re still in touch to this day. After graduation, I moved around a bit before earning my MBA at Indiana University, and served one year on the Alumnae Advisory Committee (AAC) for Indiana Beta. For the 30 years that followed, my Pi Phi involvement was diligently reading The Arrow and staying in touch with my Massachusetts Beta sisters — but not actively volunteering.
From left, Massachusetts Betas CHERYLANN CHASE TAYLOR and WENDY LABRECHE PRATT share their Pi Phi Pride at the Boston Halo Happenings in 2015.
About 10 years ago, I received an email from Pi Phi inviting
Whatever needs arise, I want Pi Phi to be prepared — and I have
alumnae in my area to support our extension presentation
faith that our leadership uses the money wisely. We’ll still be a
at Quinnipiac University. On a whim, I went, and ended
beacon of goodness in the world 150 years from now, just as we
up being asked to serve on Connecticut Gamma’s first AAC.
were 150 years ago.
When I was asked to help, I didn't think I was qualified for the position — but then I thought, "what if nobody else raises her
I believe that our core values are a blueprint for how to live a
hand?" I quickly learned that the level of support Pi Phi gives
good life. Pi Phi gives me a chance to be surrounded all the time
to local volunteers is unparalleled. After several years, I had
by women who also live this way. Sincere Friendship means
the opportunity to join the Region One Team as Operations
it doesn’t matter which side of the friendship you’re on —
Specialist. I count the six women I served with among my
sometimes you’re the one in need, sometimes you’re the one
closest friends.
giving support and sometimes you’re just enjoying each other’s company. In those relationships, you don’t keep score; you’re
Whether it’s my time or money, I give to Pi Phi because I believe
there for your friend in whatever capacity is needed. Through
that we’re as relevant as we were when I pledged, and when
Pi Phi, I know hundreds of women who are there for me,
we were founded. We’re still a safe place for young women
whether we’re celebrating, commiserating or just getting
to navigate the challenges of today’s world. If we’re going to
through. Being a Pi Phi is one of the best experiences of my
continue, our needs will only grow, and we must help support
life, and I can’t say I knew the depth of that experience as a
that growth.
collegian. Now, I truly know what it means to be a friend and leader for life.
I choose to designate my financial support to the Friendship Fund because the needs and priorities of our sisterhood change.
