Proposed Organizational Structure Positions Pi Phi for the Future

Convention 2019 delegates will consider important legislation that aims to help Pi Beta Phi successfully navigate the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) environment: a new officer structure for the Fraternity. For more than a year, a tactical team comprised of Pi Phi volunteers and Headquarters staff has worked to create the proposed organizational structure. The proposed structure has been developed with the goal of better positioning Pi Phi for current and long-term needs, and takes into account feedback gathered through discussions with peer fraternities/sororities and interviews, surveys and focus groups of Pi Phi collegians and alumnae.

With a goal of each member having a seamless, positive member experience throughout her life — the proposed structure blends the separate collegiate and alumnae regional model from our past into a unified model for our future. Title changes will begin at the Chapter Executive level and extend throughout the organization. Roles have been redefined to simplify and clarify duties, as well as reflect the needs of the organization and our members in today’s landscape.

“The structure changes being proposed allow for more relevant leadership opportunities in our collegiate chapters,” said Grand Vice President Collegians ALISON VEIT HEAFITZ, Illinois Zeta. “As part of the Chapter Leadership Team, these members will receive training and experience that will develop their leadership skills, preparing them to be leaders for life.”

With the creation of the Alumnae Engagement Director positions and the Director Alumnae position, the proposed structure will encourage increased engagement for all alumnae, whether they live in a club area or not. Tactical support for alumnae clubs will be provided through the creation of Alumnae Club Support Officer roles. These will be appointed roles (not shown on the proposed organizational chart), filled on an as-needed basis and will not be standard for all clubs — providing support to the right club at the right time, regardless of geographic region.

“We want all Pi Phis to experience Sincere Friendship as part of their lifelong commitment to Pi Beta Phi,” said Grand Vice President Alumnae AMY LORENZEN SOUTHERLAND, South Dakota Alpha. “We believe the proposed structure will promote alumnae engagement, enhance collaboration between collegians and alumnae and help transition our collegians into life as Pi Phi alumnae following graduation.”

To view frequently asked questions, additional benefits of the proposed structure, job descriptions and more, visit www.pibetaphi.org/proposedstructure.

More than a year of research and discussions went into a proposal to revise the Pi Beta Phi officer organizational structure. Delegates will consider whether the Fraternity will move forward with the plan at Convention 2019.