A Beacon of Goodness in the World

From left, Massachusetts Betas CHERYLANN CHASE TAYLOR and WENDY LABRECHE PRATT share their Pi Phi Pride at the Boston Halo Happenings in 2015.

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.

About 10 years ago, I received an email from Pi Phi inviting alumnae in my area to support our extension presentation at Quinnipiac University. On a whim, I went, and ended up being asked to serve on Connecticut Gamma’s first AAC. 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 hand?" I quickly learned that the level of support Pi Phi gives to local volunteers is unparalleled. After several years, I had the opportunity to join the Region One Team as Operations Specialist. I count the six women I served with among my closest friends.

Whether it’s my time or money, I give to Pi Phi because I believe that we’re as relevant as we were when I pledged, and when we were founded. We’re still a safe place for young women to navigate the challenges of today’s world. If we’re going to continue, our needs will only grow, and we must help support that growth.

Whatever needs arise, I want Pi Phi to be prepared — and I have faith that our leadership uses the money wisely. We’ll still be a beacon of goodness in the world 150 years from now, just as we were 150 years ago.

I believe that our core values are a blueprint for how to live a good life. Pi Phi gives me a chance to be surrounded all the time by women who also live this way. Sincere Friendship means it doesn’t matter which side of the friendship you’re on — sometimes you’re the one in need, sometimes you’re the one giving support and sometimes you’re just enjoying each other’s company. In those relationships, you don’t keep score; you’re there for your friend in whatever capacity is needed.

Through Pi Phi, I know hundreds of women who are there for me, whether we’re celebrating, commiserating or just getting through. Being a Pi Phi is one of the best experiences of my life, and I can’t say I knew the depth of that experience as a collegian. Now, I truly know what it means to be a friend and leader for life.