As an Olympic gold medalist, North Carolina Beta NANCY HOGSHEAD has been fueled by her own experiences with sexism to fiercely advocate for the rights of women and girls in sports. Through her nonprofit organization, Champion Women, she has pursued these goals throughout her career with the relentless intensity of a champion.
THREADS OF COMMUNITY CONNECTION
Established in 1966 by nine members of the St. Louis, Missouri, Alumnae Club, Sign of the Arrow is a renowned needlepoint shop located in the heart of St. Louis. Over the decades, the shop has thrived as an example of the power of collective effort and shared passion.
BEYOND THE COURT
As a former Women’s National Basketball Association player who understands the barriers within women's basketball, California Alpha JAYNE APPEL MARINELLI has made it her mission to protect players' rights and well-being on and off the court.
ON THE COVER
North Carolina Beta NANCY HOGSHEAD, three-time Olympic gold medalist, four-time medalist, winner of the Kiputh Award and member of 12 Halls of Fame (including the International Women’s Sports Hall of Fame and the International Swimming Hall of Fame), in action at a 1979 swimming event.
THE ARROW® OF PI BETA PHI Summer 2024 • Vol. 140 No. 3
GRAND COUNCIL
Lisa Gamel Scott Emory McGinnis Eison
Melissa Malone Colvin Jenn Plagman-Galvin Greer Horne Ana Mancebo Miller
PI BETA PHI FRATERNITY FOR WOMEN 1154 Town & Country Commons Drive Town & Country, Missouri 63017 (636) 256–0680 | FAX (636) 256–8095 headquarters@pibetaphi.org pibetaphi.org
CONNECT WITH US! f/pibetaphi /pibetaphihq l/pibetaphihq n/Pi Beta Phi Fraternity
SUBMISSIONS
All Pi Phis are encouraged to submit news and stories to The Arrow. Articles may be submitted online at pibetaphi.org/stories. Visit pibetaphi.org/arrow for submission and photography guidelines.
All photos and written submissions become the property of Pi Beta Phi and are subject to editing for content, grammar and space constraints. Submissions may be used for other educational or marketing purposes by the Fraternity. We cannot guarantee the publication of any submission.
SUBMISSION DEADLINES
Winter — October 1 Spring — February 1 Summer — June 1
ADDRESS/NAME CHANGES
Please direct any address or name changes by email to thearrow@pibetaphi.org or by mail to The Arrow, 1154 Town & Country Commons Dr., Town & Country, Missouri, 63017. You may also call Pi Beta Phi Headquarters at (636) 256-0680 or update your profile at pibetaphi.org/profile.
HOW TO RECEIVE THE ARROW
To receive three hard copies of The Arrow, pay your $45 annual alumna dues to your local alumnae club or directly to Headquarters. Visit pibetaphi.org/dues or mail a check to Headquarters.
Modeling the Way
KIM BARGER DURAND
Pi Beta Phi Foundation Secretary for the Board of Trustees
“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” —Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972
When I think about the importance of more opportunities for women, I think of my mom—a Southern California high school student and All-American swimmer in the early 1960s. At that time, few opportunities existed for women to participate in athletics at the collegiate level, so when my mom went to college, she had to give up competing in the sport she both excelled in and loved. One generation later, Title IX made it possible for my sister, Oregon Alpha KRISSY BARGER CLARK , to play tennis at the University of Oregon on a full scholarship and for me to embark on a 30-year career in collegiate athletic leadership at four Division I universities.
While few pieces of American legislation can match Title IX’s influence and impact, the playing field remains far from equal for women athletes—an experience that’s not limited to the United States. Women’s sports are frequently undervalued, both in the US and internationally, because they’re positioned to generate less revenue. Every day, women continue to compete and achieve at the highest levels while enjoying little of the spotlight traditionally given to men. Significant gender-based pay gaps exist for athletes and coaches of the same sports, and men have access to far more branding and sponsorship opportunities. But perhaps the greatest challenges women face are the cultural double standards that ensure we never get it right. It’s not good enough for us to be outstanding athletes; we have to look the part by wearing makeup while we play. Our bodies are scrutinized and openly discussed; we’re judged by how well we conform to narrow definitions of femininity, athleticism and physical attractiveness. While qualities like outspokenness, competitiveness and confidence are praised in men, we’re told they make us abrasive, arrogant and rude.
So when there are two sets of rules for the same game, how can we motivate one another to take chances, step up as leaders and pursue what we love? Besides advocating for change and calling out inequities, we can model the way. The women athletes at University of Washington spend hours after every game signing autographs and taking photos with young fans. Win or lose, they feel it’s their responsibility to inspire the next generation of girls in sports, because other women did the same for them. And that’s exactly what Pi Phi did for me— it’s the reason why I am where I am today. My member experience became a springboard for my career because my sisters empowered me to lead boldly and encouraged me to open new doors of opportunity. Now, it’s my turn to keep them open for the women who will lead tomorrow. I owe it to them, and I owe it to Mom.
In Pi Phi,
Letters to Pi Phi
Pi Beta Phi believes we can strengthen the inherent value in Pi Phi sisterhood by seeking feedback from our members and using what we learn to help plan our next steps. We want to hear from you, whether you’re sharing your feelings on the latest issue of The Arrow, your thoughts on a Fraternity email or social media post or a heartfelt critique encouraging Pi Phi to do better. Below are a selection of thoughts Pi Phi sisters shared with the Fraternity.
Let’s keep the conversation going, together—send your reflections and feedback to thearrow@pibetaphi.org
Please include your full name and chapter of initiation.
In response to the Spring 2024 issue of The Arrow:
From the cover to the feature spread, everything about this issue felt fresh and relevant. The graphic treatments had so much energy, especially in their minimalism. In Her Words is STUNNING, and the 'Words of Wisdom' feature is such a beautiful acknowledgment and reflection of our membership. I’m thrilled to have an issue of The Arrow that I know I will keep coming back to for inspiration.
In response to the Fraternity celebrating National Volunteer Week with a spotlight on our members serving on Grand Council and at the Director-level of Pi Beta Phi.
DAWN WILKINS , West Virginia Gamma, initiated 1968
Much love and thanks to each and every one of these special ladies!
So proud of these leaders who help young women learn to lead!
The opinions expressed in Letters to Pi Phi do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Pi Beta Phi Fraternity, nor does Pi Beta Phi endorse the opinions or viewpoints expressed within.
Welcome to BetaBase
Pi Beta Phi’s cutting-edge member portal and database management system, BetaBase, is now live. As we bid a fond farewell to solutions like SisterSearch, memberplanet and eReports, we are thrilled to usher in a new era of streamlined processes, advanced technology, enhanced data reporting and sophisticated tools for chapter and alumnae club management and sisterly connections—all thanks to BetaBase.
A SINGLE SOURCE OF TRUTH
BetaBase is your new hub for membership information. This state-of-the-art platform offers enhanced data integrity, consolidates two Learning Management Solutions for chapters, clubs, volunteer leaders and Headquarters (HQ) staff, and serves as a unified resource for the Fraternity, Foundation and Fraternity Housing Corporation.
KEY FEATURES AND FUNCTIONALITIES
STREAMLINED LOGIN AND SINGLE SIGN-ON (SSO)
Navigating BetaBase is a breeze with well-designed login, welcome and content pages. SSO capabilities allow members to access all features and tools with one set of credentials, enhancing security and simplifying the login process.
OPTIMIZED FOR MOBILE AND DESKTOP
BetaBase’s responsive design ensures seamless use on both mobile and desktop devices. This mobilefirst approach allows members to access and manage their information anytime, anywhere, providing unmatched flexibility and convenience.
SEAMLESS INTEGRATIONS
The platform includes robust integrations for email marketing and social media, enabling efficient communication and engagement. These features make it easy to share updates, events and other important information through preferred channels, enhancing connectivity and outreach.
COMPREHENSIVE MEMBERSHIP MANAGEMENT
BetaBase supports multiple membership levels with tools for managing profiles, tracking engagement, and facilitating tiered communication. It simplifies alumnae club management by integrating dues collection, event creation, promotion, electronic communication and financial systems.
YOUR JOURNEY WITH BETABASE BEGINS NOW
We are confident BetaBase will enhance Pi Beta Phi’s capabilities and strengthen our sisterhood. As we embark on this exciting new chapter, our HQ staff is here to support you every step of the way. Learn more at pibetaphi.org/betabase
Please note: Due to the publication timing of this issue of The Arrow, updates to your member profile (including address and communication preferences) after June 25, 2024, were not reflected in pulling the mail list. Any changes you made to your member profile in BetaBase will be reflected in the next issue.
Pi Phis with a valid email on file were sent an invitation to create their BetaBase account in July. Didn’t receive your email invitation? Create your account now.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Congratulations to the 106 scholarship and fellowship recipients receiving awards totaling $317,846 for the 2024-2025 academic year! Thank you to all the sisters and friends who make these scholarships possible by supporting Pi Beta Phi Foundation.
Undergraduate, Graduate Fellowship and Alumnae Continuing Education Scholarship applications for the 2025–2026 academic year open November 15. Submit your application before 11:59 p.m. PST on February 15, 2025, to be considered for more than 100 scholarships and fellowships. Learn about the application criteria at pibetaphi.org/scholarships
CHAPTER AND ALUMNAE CLUB ANNIVERSARIES
View the full list of scholarship recipients.
As Pi Beta Phi celebrates 157 years of sisterhood, many of our chapters and alumnae clubs are achieving their own milestones—a testament to the Lifelong Commitment of our members. Congratulations to the chapters, clubs and members celebrating significant milestones in 2024!
ALUMNAE CLUBS
Corvallis, Oregon, Alumnae Club – 100 years
Greater Orlando Area, Florida, Alumnae Club – 100 years
Memphis, Tennessee, Alumnae Club – 100 years
Pasadena, California, Alumnae Club – 100 years
Amarillo, Texas, Alumnae Club – 75 years
Contra Costa, California, Alumnae Club – 75 years
Lake Charles, Louisiana, Alumnae Club – 75 years
Lake Shore, Illinois, Alumnae Club – 75 years
Midland, Texas, Alumnae Club – 75 years
Muncie, Indiana, Alumnae Club – 75 years
Conroe-The Woodlands, Texas Alumnae Club – 50 years
Cypress Creek-NW Houston, Texas, Alumnae Club – 50 years
CHAPTERS
Iowa Beta, Simpson College – 150 years
Missouri Alpha, University of Missouri – 125 years
Alabama Beta, University of Alabama – 75 years
California Epsilon, San Diego State University – 75 years
California Eta, University of California, Irvine – 50 years
Did you recently celebrate a reunion or anniversary? Share your story and photos at pibetaphi.org/stories for a chance to be featured in a Pi Phi publication.
PI BETA PHI WINS COMMUNICATIONS AWARDS
At the Fraternity Communications Association (FCA) Annual Conference in May, Pi Beta Phi was recognized for excellence in four categories.
• First place in “Annual/Biennial Report” for the 2022-2023 Foundation Impact Report
• First place in “Critics Choice – Cover Design” for the Winter 2023 Arrow Cover
• First place in “Video Presentation – Long” for Stories of our Legacy with Sis & Carol
• Third place in “Writing - Long Feature” for the Winter 2023 Arrow feature: No Room for Failure
Congratulations to the Fraternity volunteers and HQ staff who contributed to this accomplishment—and a special thank you to Grand President Emerita SARAH "SIS" MULLIS, South Carolina Alpha, and Grand Vice President Emerita CAROL INGE WARREN, North Carolina Beta, for sharing their favorite memories and stories in the video!
From left: Michigan Gamma CASSIDY NIEVES, HQ Marketing Director, and Maddie Mitchell, HQ Graphic Designer, accept the FCA awards on behalf of the Fraternity Headquarters' Marketing and Communications team.
LOBBYING FOR OUR FUTURE
Each spring, a team of Pi Phi collegians advocate for legislation impacting fraternities and sororities including national anti-hazing legislation, freedom of association, safe housing and college affordability. This annual day of lobbying is coordinated by the Fraternal Government Relations Coalition (FGRC). Pi Phi collegians in attendance included Connecticut Alpha
Read more about our Pi Phi lobbyists’ experience on the hill.
CHAPTERS
132 participating in primary recruitment 108 matching or exceeding quota 92 recruiting chapters in the fall 40 recruiting chapters in the spring
chapters with fewer than 100 members after primary recruitment
chapters with 100 to 250 members after primary recruitment
chapters with 250 to 350 members after primary recruitment
6,049 New Members accepted a Pi Beta Phi bid through primary recruitment
1,331 New Members accepted a Pi Beta Phi bid through continuous recruitment
2,419 Largest number of Potential New Members participating in the first round of recruitment on campus (Alabama Beta)
613 Largest chapter size after primary recruitment (Arkansas Alpha)
Alabama Alpha # Smallest quota 2
Mississippi Beta # Largest quota 208
chapters with 350 to 450 members after primary recruitment
chapter with 450 to 550 members after primary recruitment
chapters with more than 550 members after primary recruitment
From left: Lily and Rebekah.
MORE THAN 140 PI PHI LEADERS GATHERED FOR PI BETA PHI LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
In July, 119 collegians and 24 alumnae facilitators from across North America gathered at Washington University in St. Louis for Pi Beta Phi Leadership Institute. Through working sessions focused on presence, purpose, community building and inclusion, attendees were encouraged to utilize their unique skills and connections to shine a light on themselves and the communities they serve. Watch the video recap at pibetaphi.org/li.
Pi Beta Phi Leadership Institute is supported by Pi Beta Phi Foundation through gifts to The Leadership Fund. When you give to our Foundation, you empower young Pi Phis—helping them discover and use their voices. Learn more and make your gift at pibetaphi.org/foundation.
WELCOME BACK OHIO ZETA
Established in 1945, the Ohio Zeta Chapter returned to Miami University in Spring 2024. On April 27, 2024, Grand President LISA GAMEL SCOTT reinstalled the chapter and initiated the newest member class, officially welcoming them into the wine and silver blue. Take a behind-the-scenes look at the reinstallation weekend festivities.
1. From left: Ohio Zeta Resident Leadership Development Consultant COURTNEY KROSS, Ohio Theta, Grand President LISA GAMEL SCOTT, Leadership Development Consultant SARAH WHITE, California Mu, Ohio Zeta Resident Leadership Development Consultant VALORA HART, Indiana Delta, and Leadership Development Consultant CAROLINE AYERS, Tennessee Gamma.
2. From left: Ohio Zetas ALLIE KACMARCIK, MAKAYLIA CARPENTER, FAITH FULLER, LENA CANESTARO and CAMILLE GRIGGS
3. From left: Ohio Zeta Chapter President AMELIA MENDENHALL and Vice President Recruitment LILY DRAGA
4. Ohio Zeta's Cookie Shine Reception.
5. From left: Ohio Zeta Resident Leadership Development Consultants VALORA HART, Indiana Delta, and COURTNEY KROSS, Ohio Theta, with the Ohio Zeta Charter.
6. From left: Ohio Zetas OLIVIA MICHAELS ABBEY MICHAELSON, TAYLOR MCMILLIN and AVA NATASI
7. From left: Ohio Zetas KENNA JACOBS and JAMIE DESALVO
Game Day Traditions
College game days are full of excitement, fellowship and celebrations. For Pi Phis across North America, these events present an opportunity to showcase school pride while fostering a sense of community within their sisterhood. For so many chapters, it’s not just their enthusiasm for the game, but the unique role their chapter facilities play in hosting unforgettable game day festivities. On game day, chapter facilities transform into epicenters of joy and camaraderie, becoming the heart of alumnae gatherings, Family Weekends and other cherished events. Below, several chapter leaders share how they create memorable experiences to make everyone—from collegians to family and alumnae— feel right at home.
OHIO BETA ANNA LANHAM, DIRECTOR HOUSING
A favorite game day tradition at the Ohio Beta Chapter facility is when everyone in the house gets ready together and plays music in the hallways before football games. It’s such a special bonding experience the way we share clothes and makeup and help do each other’s hair. The night before game days, members gather downstairs before heading to bed early and eagerly awaiting a fun day ahead of us!
Parents Weekend typically falls on a game day weekend, allowing members to invite their parents, caregivers and alumnae to the house to receive a tour, enjoy brunch and take pictures. To make the chapter home warm and inviting, the banner committee designs a banner to hang by the porch and welcome guests inside. Showing families and alumnae how much pride is taken in cheering on The Ohio State University is an amazing feeling.
MISSISSIPPI GAMMA JULIA WEEDEN, VICE PRESIDENT MEMBER EXPERIENCE
At Mississippi Gamma, our favorite game day tradition is our annual Family Weekend. The joy of welcoming and meeting each other’s families is such a sweet, full-circle moment. Having an event where the house is open to our families is so special because they can see the place that has shaped and molded us.
In Spring 2024, our Family Weekend spanned two days instead of one and included lots of fun new ideas to welcome our visitors. All weekend long, we had a raffle for Mississippi State University’s Super Bulldog Weekend tickets and the money directly benefited Read > Lead > Achieve®. That Saturday morning, we hosted a lunch buffet at the chapter facility before attending the baseball series in the afternoon, and later that night we had a basketball watch party with ice cream!
ALABAMA BETA BROOKE MAYOR, CHAPTER PRESIDENT
A cherished tradition for Alabama Beta is opening our home to guests during game day weekends. For every football game, we extend an invitation to alumnae via our chapter's Facebook page, and upon arrival, they can visit the "Alum-Table" to receive game day pins and Alabama shakers. One standout event we host is Breakfast for Champions, which consistently draws a large turnout of friends, family, alumnae, staff and students. In Fall 2023, we proudly raised more than $90,000 for the Literacy Fund, enabling us to fund two local impact grants in our community.
By hosting these game day events and welcoming all who wish to attend, we strengthen the connection between Pi Phi and the broader community. Breakfast for Champions is especially meaningful as it showcases our dedication to literacy and our commitment to making a local impact. This event not only strengthens our bond with the community but also emphasizes the values that drive our sisterhood.
Below: MALLORY SUBLETTE (middle) with her parents at Alabama Beta's Breakfast for Champions event.
INDIANA GAMMA CASEY
HOFMANN, VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Members of Indiana Gamma like to offer house tours to Pi Phi alumnae every fall on the day of our homecoming football game. Many Butler University graduates are on campus at this time, and we love welcoming alumnae to revisit the facility, especially with the new addition that was finished in 2021.
Our house is more than just a building—it connects us and holds important memories we've made during our collegiate years. We're proud of the place we call home and hope to remind alumnae of the pride they felt when they lived here.
WISCONSIN DELTA ISABELLE FELBER, VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNITY RELATIONS
One of the many special game day traditions for students at Marquette University (MU) is National Marquette Day. This is a campus tradition originally known as “Spirit Day,” which dates back to the 1960s, but officially became National Marquette Day in 1992. The celebration takes place during basketball season in February and brings the community together by honoring university values and spirit. Milwaukee is filled with alumni and members of the MU community as they celebrate their values of excellence, leadership, faith and service.
Wisconsin Delta sisters gather at our chapter facility to share food before the game and get ready together. I love MU basketball because it’s a fun way for our students to come together and have school spirit, and being with my sisters on gamedays brings us that much closer together!
Above, from left: Indiana Gammas LINDSEY FOUTCH and MORGAN HUESTON outside the chapter house.
Above: Wisconsin Deltas celebrating National Marquette Day together.
Kaylie Banks
Mississippi Gamma
AS A HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER AND VOLLEYBALL COACH, WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST FULFILLING IN YOUR CAREER?
The impact teachers and coaches have on students’ lives is nothing short of amazing. We are called to be teachers, therapists, life coaches and so much more. Connecting with students and helping them not only discover their dreams but do the work to get them there is the best part.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU FACE COACHING A TEAM AND HOW DO YOU OVERCOME THEM?
In coaching high school, there are big emotions and life events almost every day; high school students bring everything with them all the time. So many of the young women I coach carry more than anyone would think— being there for them and helping them through the challenges that they face off the court is the hardest part.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO PI PHIS WHO WISH TO PURSUE A SIMILAR CAREER?
Whether you want to work in high school or collegiate athletics, experience in any areas of those fields is invaluable! I started working as a tutor because I was an education major and a whole new career field was opened to me because of the connections I made. Be open to all experiences—you never know who you will meet that will help you take the next step.
WHO (OR WHAT) CONSISTENTLY INSPIRES YOU?
As someone who grew up playing sports from a young age, the current spotlight on women’s athletics and the success of female athletes both on the collegiate and professional level is incredible. It is so important for young girls to have role models in the sports they love to play.
HOW DO YOU MEASURE PERSONAL SUCCESS?
I have learned that success is not wins and losses— helping athletes better themselves is the most important part. Watching my players become wonderful people who are leaders in the community is the biggest blessing.
WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU WISH YOU WOULD HAVE KNOWN SOONER IN LIFE?
Risks are what make life worth living. I wouldn't have had nearly as many opportunities as I have without taking some big risks! Rejection is healthy and part of life—do not take it personally. There are so many more people cheering you on than you could ever dream.
“PI BETA PHI HAS TAUGHT ME…”
How to be a leader. Pi Phi helped me have the confidence to step out of my comfort zone and become a leader in the chapter. Without those opportunities, I would never have become involved in athletics and realized my dream career was attainable.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE AND WHY?
“Every child deserves a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can possibly be.” – Rita Pierson
As a teacher and coach, I have the opportunity to impact so many students. For some, I am the only person encouraging them and supporting them—that is a responsibility I do not take lightly. I strive to be someone who shows up and encourages my students and athletes every day, no matter what.
Congratulations to our 2023 Award Winners
Every year, we celebrate and honor sisters for supporting Pi Beta Phi and positively impacting their communities. While there are thousands of members making a difference, we send special congratulations to our 2023 award winners. These awards celebrate philanthropic service, academic success and overall achievement, among other categories. We are proud to present the following individuals, chapters and clubs an award for their contributions in 2023.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS
AMY BURNHAM ONKEN AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SCHOLARSHIP & CAMPUS & COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Kathleen Bailey, Massachusetts Gamma
CAROL INGE WARREN AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ALUMNAE ADVISORY COMMITTEE ADVISOR
Bianka Bargmann, Ontario Alpha
CHAPTER SERVICE AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVANT LEADERSHIP
Paris Paz, California Zeta
EMMA HARPER TURNER LEADERSHIP AWARD
Cindy Kralis Georgas, Indiana Delta
EVELYN PETERS KYLE ANGEL AWARD FOR CLUB SERVICE
Peg Steffen Sant'Ambrogio, Indiana Epsilon
JEAN WIRTHS SCOTT LEADERSHIP AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CHANGE LEADERSHIP
Olivia Stafford, Ontario Alpha
YOUNG ALUMNA ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Rachel Isom Murdock, Alabama Beta and Riley Gulbronson, Georgia Beta
SILVER SLIPPER AWARD –EXCELLENCE OF A CHAPTER VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE
Sara Cole, Ontario Alpha
CHAPTER
AWARD WINNERS
BALFOUR CUP
Texas Gamma
BALFOUR CUP 1 ST RUNNER UP
Kansas Alpha
BALFOUR CUP 2 ND RUNNER UP
Missouri Alpha
EXCELLENCE IN AAC SERVICE
Alabama Alpha
EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY RELATIONS
Wisconsin Epsilon
EXCELLENCE IN FINANCE/HOUSING
Missouri Gamma
EXCELLENCE IN INCLUSION
Arizona Alpha
EXCELLENCE IN MEMBER EXPERIENCE
California Kappa
EXCELLENCE IN OPERATIONS
New York Epsilon
EXCELLENCE IN RECRUITMENT
Delaware Alpha
EXCELLENCE IN RISK MANAGEMENT
Kansas Alpha
ALUMNAE CLUB
AWARD WINNERS
PREMIER CLUB (LARGE)
Richardson-Plano, Texas, Alumnae Club
PREMIER CLUB (SMALL)
Arrowhead - West Phoenix, Arizona, Alumnae Club
FIRST RUNNER UP (LARGE)
Bostonian, Massachusetts, Alumnae Club
FIRST RUNNER UP (SMALL)
Cypress Creek-Northwest Houston, Texas, Alumnae Club
SECOND RUNNER UP (LARGE)
Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Alumnae Club
SECOND RUNNER UP (SMALL)
Glen Ellyn-Wheaton, Illinois, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN ALUMNAE ENGAGEMENT (LARGE)
Bostonian, Massachusetts, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN ALUMNAE ENGAGEMENT (SMALL)
Fort Myers Area, Florida, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN FUN & FRIENDSHIP (LARGE)
Indianapolis, Indiana, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN FUN & FRIENDSHIP (SMALL)
Cypress Creek-Northwest Houston, Texas, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN LIFELONG COMMITMENT (LARGE)
Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN LIFELONG COMMITMENT (SMALL)
Southlake Area, Texas, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY
SERVICE, NON-LITERACY (LARGE)
San Jose, California, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY
SERVICE, NON-LITERACY (SMALL)
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN LITERACY
INITIATIVES (LARGE)
Indianapolis, Indiana, Alumnae Club
EXCELLENCE IN LITERACY
INITIATIVES (SMALL)
Southlake Area, Texas, Alumnae Club
2023 Carolyn Helman Lichtenberg Crest Award Winners
Each year, we recognize distinguished alumnae with the Carolyn Helman Lichtenberg Crest Award for their efforts in the areas of community service or professional achievement. This award honors past Grand President Carolyn Helman Lichtenberg, Ohio Alpha—a visionary leader for Pi Beta Phi whose efforts can still be felt throughout the Fraternity. We are proud to present the following individuals with an award for their contributions in 2023.
CAROLYN HELMAN LICHTENBERG CREST AWARD FOR PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT
EILEEN RYAN BRADSHAW, ILLINOIS BETA-DELTA
President and CEO, LIFE
Senior Services
“Pi Beta Phi has taught me that women lift each other up. My time as a collegiate Pi Phi allowed me to meet and become friends with women whose backgrounds were very different than mine. I learned to appreciate that and have embraced differences in approach throughout my career. This has been invaluable.”
Read more about Eileen at pibetaphi.org/eileen
SANDRA L. CARON, PH.D., MAINE ALPHA
Family Relations/Human Sexuality Professor, University of Maine
“As a teacher and researcher, Pi Phi prepared me by showing me the importance of leading by example.
It demonstrated both advocacy and mentorship; that surrounding yourself with others, in this case women, leads to incredible energy, empowerment, vision, inspiration and community—elements that are critical to achieving and maintaining good leadership.”
Read more about Sandra at pibetaphi.org/sandra
GWEN CONNELLEY STAFFORD, TEXAS GAMMA
Senior Vice President, Covenant Health System
“Pi Beta Phi has reinforced my belief that the leadership opportunities given to us through our collegiate sisterhood transferred into real-world leadership skills in the workplace. Observing the leadership skills of the upper classmates demonstrated women were more than capable of doing a job or any task while inspiring others to be successful leaders throughout their life.”
Read more about Gwen at pibetaphi.org/gwen
KATHY DOYLE THOMAS, TEXAS DELTA
President, Half Price Books
“Serving Texas Delta as a collegiate officer provided invaluable leadership and professional development skills that have served me throughout my life. Now, I love working with the next generation of motivated and committed career women in both my professional and volunteer roles; they encourage me to find my passions and be a servant leader.”
Read more about Kathy at pibetaphi.org/kathy
CAROLYN
HELMAN LICHTENBERG
CREST AWARD FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE
MELINDA MEYER BLANKENSHIP, TEXAS ALPHA
Artist, Author and Dog Therapy Volunteer, Faithful Paws
“As an undergraduate, I found that working on philanthropic events, alongside my Pi Phi sisters, was just as fun as some of our social events. So, promoting literacy inspired me to get a therapy dog to serve as a dog reader in helping kids to improve their reading. I don’t think I would be working with therapy dogs if I hadn’t been exposed to the importance of literacy.”
Read more about Melinda at pibetaphi.org/melinda
STACY WELLS CHAPIN, WASHINGTON GAMMA
Founder, Ethan’s Smile Foundation and Author
“Pi Phi exposed me to philanthropy and why giving back is so important. I learned the gratification of putting others before myself. The most remarkable thing about giving back is that it [Ethan’s Smile Foundation] helps other kids succeed and honors Ethan. I can't begin to explain how rewarding it feels to give scholarships and help other kids follow their dreams. It’s truly bittersweet.”
Read more about Sandra at pibetaphi.org/stacy
ALISON EVANS TAYLOR, OKLAHOMA ALPHA
ReadOKC on the Go! Project Manager
“My involvement with Pi Beta Phi has shaped my perspective of giving to the community and service since my collegiate days at Oklahoma Alpha. This energy and enthusiasm for community outreach continued as a member of leadership for the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Alumnae Club. Friendships made through the alumnae club made me aware of how the commitment to improving literacy in our communities was shared by Pi Phi’s from all different chapters and in so many unique ways.”
Read more about Alison at pibetaphi.org/alison
DR. LAURA VALLENI, CALIFORNIA LAMBDA
Neonatologist and founding Director, "Babies with Books" program in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Pinehurst, North Carolina
“To be wholeheartedly in service to others every day in work that I believe is worth doing; to me, this is the very purpose of life. I love caring for newborns and their families. For me, this is soul-nourishing, an honor to be able to be in this space, my life’s calling and where I feel I can be impactful. It is a joy and a challenge to care for our tiniest human beings and help improve their lives. There is nothing more fulfilling than being able to send a baby home to grow up with their family.”
Read more about Laura at pibetaphi.org/laura
The Gift of Giving Back
Many Pi Phis choose to volunteer for our sisterhood as a heartfelt way to give back and reconnect with the organization that left an indelible mark on their lives. Inspired by the meaningful connections she’s fostered over the years, Ontario Alpha BIANKA BARGMANN felt called to extend the gifts Pi Phi gave her and make a difference for future generations of sisters.
As a member of Ontario Alpha’s Alumnae Advisory Committee (AAC) and the 2023 recipient of the Carol Inge Warren Award for Outstanding AAC Advisor, Bianka’s unwavering dedication and passion for Pi Phi shine through in all she does. On the next page, Bianka shares what brings her the most fulfillment as a volunteer and the impact she hopes to make.
WHY AND HOW DID YOU DECIDE TO START VOLUNTEERING WITH PI PHI?
I decided to start volunteering with Pi Phi because of the profound impact the organization had on my life during my time as an undergraduate student. I wanted to give back by supporting and mentoring young women as they navigate their own Pi Phi experiences.
WHAT ASPECTS OF YOUR VOLUNTEER ROLES HAVE BEEN MOST MEANINGFUL TO YOU?
The most meaningful aspects of my volunteer roles have been witnessing the personal growth and achievements of the Pi Phi members I've mentored. Supporting and guiding them through challenges and successes has been incredibly rewarding. Many of them have become great friends even after the mentor/mentee relationship has ended.
HOW HAS YOUR VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE IMPACTED YOU—AND WHAT IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO MAKE THROUGH YOUR WORK?
My volunteer experience with Pi Phi has deeply impacted me by reinforcing the importance of mentorship and community service. I hope to inspire other Pi Phi members to embrace Lifelong Commitment and consider volunteering for Pi Phi.
IS THERE A PI PHI VOLUNTEER OR MENTOR WHO HAS PLAYED AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN YOUR EXPERIENCE?
Ontario Alpha MONICA DIAZ-GRECO has always been an inspiration to me throughout my entire experience as a Pi Phi. Her dedication, integrity and commitment to our sisterhood are amazing to behold. I knew I wanted to become an advisor from the first time I met Monica, and even now, I know she’s always there to help.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
The drive to be the best I can be. I always push myself to achieve what I’ve set out to do and keep growing, whether that’s personally or professionally.
WHY DO YOU CHOOSE TO STAY ENGAGED WITH PI PHI AS AN ALUMNA?
I choose to stay engaged with Pi Phi as an alumna because of the lifelong friendships and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of young women.
WHAT WOULD YOU SHARE WITH OTHER SISTERS WHO ARE CONSIDERING WHETHER TO VOLUNTEER WITH PI PHI?
I would encourage them to reflect on their passions and strengths and explore how they can contribute. Being an advisor can be a very rewarding experience, but it isn't the only volunteer opportunity available within Pi Phi.
YOU’VE RECENTLY BEEN CHOSEN AS THE RECIPIENT OF THE CAROL INGE WARREN AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING AAC ADVISOR FOR 2023. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN TO YOU? It is a tremendous honor. This award validates my commitment to Pi Phi and motivates me to continue serving with excellence and dedication.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE?
My journey with Pi Phi has been incredibly fulfilling, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to an organization that has given me so much. I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact and supporting future generations of Pi Phi sisters. I would be remiss if I didn’t thank all the previous advisors I've worked alongside over the years, as well as my current team. So, thank you— I appreciate each and every one of you! Being able to work alongside strong, like-minded women who also believe in helping the chapter we serve has made my role that much more meaningful.
VOLUNTEER WITH PI PHI
Bianka is one of more than 1,000 Advisors currently supporting our collegiate chapters. If you’re interested in working with our chapters, scan the QR code to join our volunteer network. Serving as a chapter Advisor requires no prior experience or waiting period; any member can volunteer following graduation.
Your Pi Phi volunteer experience can be uniquely yours, and there are numerous opportunities to get involved, such as mentoring collegians, leading alumnae clubs or sharing your professional expertise. No matter your background, interests or skill set, Pi Phi benefits from your involvement and can help you grow as a leader.
By Emily Kuryla
Content warning: The following story contains mentions and descriptions of sexism, rape, abuse and PTSD.
Forty years ago, American swimmer NANCY HOGSHEAD, North Carolina Beta, achieved Olympic glory at the 1984 Los Angeles Games. Yet her path from the neighborhood pool to the medal podium wasn’t always paved with gold. Her own experiences with sexual assault and sexism fueled her later career as a civil rights attorney, influential policy expert and legal advocate for the rights of women and girls in sports. As founder and CEO of the nonprofit Champion Women, Nancy has never stopped pursuing her goals with the endurance, resilience and relentless intensity of a champion. “I knew I wanted to work on issues that were important to women,” she explains. “Focusing on women in sports was the best way I could do it."
Nancy Hogshead in action during a September 1979 swim event. (Photo by Tony Duffy/ALLSPORT)
Already a talented gymnast in childhood, Nancy began swimming after her parents bought a boat and wanted to ensure their children’s safety in the water. When Nancy was 11, the family moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where she joined a team coached by Randy Reese—a young coach who would later lead hundreds of athletes to NCAA titles and Olympic competitions. Though Nancy hadn’t been in the pool for long, Randy saw her untapped potential. “He told my parents I could be an Olympian,” she recalls.
By the time she turned 12, Nancy was the top-ranked female swimmer in the United States for her age group; at 14, she was number one in the world for all women. During the following eight years, she was a member of the U.S. National Team and continuously ranked among the top five swimmers in the world. Nancy qualified for the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow but was prevented from attending or competing due to the U.S.-led boycott of the event. Later that year, she enrolled at Duke University as the recipient of the school’s first full scholarship awarded to a female swimmer.
Following the example of her mother, Iowa Beta JANET BARTEL HOGSHEAD Pi Beta Phi—and discovered a sense of belonging among women that wasn't available on a co-ed swimming team.
“When I came to Duke, I noticed and appreciated that the women matched my ambition and goal-oriented mindset—I felt a kinship with them,” she says. “Pi Phi was the first all-female group I was ever part of, because swimming is very co-ed. It was so important to me to have a group of women who were there for me. Without them, I don’t know what I would have done.”
As someone immersed in what she describes as the “hyper-masculine world of competitive sports,” Nancy was unfortunately familiar with the systemic sexism and unfair treatment often experienced by women in athletics.
“I was told every day that I wasn’t doing ‘woman’ right,” she explains. “I was too strong, too muscular, too ambitious. My practice times were doubted. When I was 15, my
HOGSHEAD HOGSHEAD
coach yelled at my male teammates, saying he couldn’t believe they let a girl beat them. On new teams, I was almost always sexually harassed for a week or two, until I became ‘one of the guys.’ And that dynamic never ended.”
Yet as a world-class, Olympic athlete at the top of her game, Nancy never imagined a sexual assault could threaten to derail her dreams. During her sophomore year at Duke, she was out for an evening run through campus when she was brutally attacked by an unknown assailant. Though Nancy fought with all her strength, the man dragged her into a nearby wooded area and raped her. The entire attack lasted hours. “I knew the threat was out there, but I thought I was
immune because of my privilege,” she says. “I was among the strongest women in the world. If I couldn’t run away, how could anyone? For me it was a fight to the death, but for him it was just another fight.”
Nancy believes the PTSD and intrusive thoughts she experienced in the aftermath of the assault were more difficult to endure than the rape itself. “No matter what I did, I didn’t feel safe,” she shares. “I’d run through crisis scenarios in my mind. I’d repeatedly check to make sure my doors were locked every night. That’s the place I was in.” She credits the immediate support she received at Duke as a critical first step in a grueling mental, emotional and physical recovery process—noting that not all survivors of assault receive the same level of care she did. “People understood the depth of my harm,” she says. “Rather than take a punitive approach, they asked what they could do to help.”
The university allowed Nancy to take a break from swimming without the threat of losing her scholarship and provided counseling. She was able to withdraw
Below: Nancy raises her fist in triumph after finishing her heat in the 100m freestyle with a time of 55.85 seconds, qualifying her for the finals at the 1984 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles. (Photo by Bettman via Getty Images)
Left: Nancy proudly shows the results of her intense training regimen. (Photo by Heinz Kluetmeier/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
from certain classes and move to a new dorm so she wouldn’t have to walk through woods, like the ones where she’d been attacked. And, surrounded by understanding and empathy from her Pi Phi sisters, she found a way to cope with her white-hot anger. “They got it,” she said. “They took care of me and never made me feel like I was damaged goods.”
Almost a year after having been raped, Nancy began to envision a new version of herself. “I wanted to be a woman who was living a great life, who didn’t have PTSD, whose life wasn’t ruled by her rape the way mine was,” she says. The following fall, Nancy’s Duke coach, Bob Thompson, told her she could keep her scholarship by just attending meets, without even going to practice. "I thought, 'why not?' Then the competitiveness in me came back," she recalls. Little did she know training could help her heal.
Using her trauma as fuel, Nancy dove headfirst into preparation for the 1984 Los Angeles Games—eventually choosing to pause her education so she could train full-time. “You’re swimming 800 laps a day, then lifting weights, then running,” she says. “You push yourself to a point where you’re either injured or sick, then pull back.” As her coaches encouraged her to swim faster, Nancy relied on the advice of her father—an orthopedic surgeon—to learn when she could push through pain and when it signaled injury.
Ultimately, she reaped the rewards of her singular determination and sacrifice by earning her spot on the 1984 USA Olympic swimming team. She would compete in five events: the women's 100-meter freestyle, 200m individual medley, 200m butterfly, 4 x 100m medley relay and the 4 x 100m freestyle relay. As she entered the stadium before the 100m freestyle, Nancy was awestruck by the fervor of the crowd and the significance of representing her country on home soil. “The Olympics were bigger than anything I could have imagined,” she reflects. “I thought the World Championships were amazing, and they weren’t even on the same scale. I’d pictured the moment through eight years of training, and it was so much more than that.”
Nancy swam her way to medals in four of her five events, including an unprecedented firstplace tie with teammate Carrie Steinseifer in the 100m freestyle. A fourth-place finish in the 200-meter butterfly put her within .07 seconds of a fifth medal. With three golds and one silver, Nancy became the most decorated swimmer at the Games. “The experience gave me a new appreciation for what humanity can do,” she says. “Any time you watch people in flow— the best of the best, doing something they’ve spent so much time on—it’s always moving and inspiring.”
As a two-time Olympian and a triple gold medalist, Nancy understood her success and fame gave her a uniquely influential platform. She also knew the opportunities she received as a female athlete—including her college scholarship and access to top-level coaching and training resources—came from the protections guaranteed through Title IX legislation. So when a U.S. Supreme Court ruling (Grove City v. Bell) severely limited the scope of Title IX just before the 1984 Olympics, Nancy didn’t miss her chance to speak up.
“Title IX made my scholarship possible, and it was a huge source of personal pride to earn it myself,” she says. “Donna de Varona, an Olympic swimmer who won gold at the 1964 Tokyo Games, talked to our entire team about Title IX and how important it was for it to stay strong. So every time I had a microphone in front of my face, I talked about it. We needed to document what the law had done for us and what we stood to lose.” (The 1987 Civil Rights Restoration Act reinstated the protections lost through the Court’s earlier decision.)
The sense of empowerment Nancy gained from using her voice to create change became the catalyst for her post-swimming career. She returned to Duke to complete her undergraduate studies and, with de Varona’s encouragement and mentorship, spent two summers interning with the newly established Women’s Sports Foundation (WSF) in San Francisco. “I couldn’t learn or write enough,” she says. “More than anything, I was interested in what I could do to make life better for women.”
Following her internship, Nancy continued her involvement with WSF—eventually serving
MORE THAN ANYTHING, I WAS INTERESTED IN WHAT I COULD DO TO MAKE LIFE BETTER FOR WOMEN.
Nancy (far right) and fellow teammates accepting their gold medals for the women's 4 × 100m freestyle relay at the 1984 Summer Olympics. (Photo by Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)
as the organization’s president, then legal advisor and senior director of advocacy after earning her law degree from Georgetown University. “Undoubtedly, my own experiences influenced my direction,” she shares. “Once you understand feminism, you understand the structures that diminish women as humans and take away our power and agency over our own lives. Then you learn to apply the same understanding to people of other religions, races and sexualities—everything. You realize until it gets better for everyone, it won’t get better for you.”
For the past 14 years, Nancy has poured heart and soul into changing the landscape of athletics for girls and women—and it’s hard to find a piece of legislation, policy or advocacy work she hasn’t authored, led or helped to develop. Her expansive body of work focuses on empowerment of female athletes through systemic change, encompassing legal representation for victims of abuse by coaches and sex-based discrimination, tougher sanctions for coaches and safeguards to protect athletes from abuse, testimony as an expert witness in landmark legal cases (including the Larry Nassar trial) and numerous Congressional hearings, and frequent contributions to national
sports policy. She finds fulfillment in the changes her work has effected within Olympic athletics, such as her role in the creation of the U.S. Center for SafeSport. “It’s not just protecting athletes from abuse, but changing the power of the athletes,” she explains. “When you change power, you change a lot of things.”
With a desire to dive further into the ongoing threats to Title IX protections and sexual abuse in sports, Nancy founded Champion Women in 2014. Today, the organization works to eliminate harassment and abuse within athletics, protect the women’s sports category as a space for women and ensure women and girls are given equal opportunities in school and sports. Champion Women’s Project: Education initiative organizes the data American high schools, colleges and universities are required to report through the Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act. Athletes can find data and read official complaints filed against their schools, learn more about their guaranteed Title IX rights and see firsthand that gender discrimination in sports, especially at the college level, continues to grow. Currently, women receive a staggering $1.1 billion less in collegiate athletic scholarships when compared with their male
IT’S NOT JUST PROTECTING ATHLETES FROM ABUSE, BUT CHANGING THE POWER OF THE ATHLETES.
counterparts—and weak institutional supervision from governing bodies like the NCAA often means Title IX enforcement hinges on athletes’ willingness to speak out.
For Nancy, statistics like these are reminders that creating systemic change means playing the long game—and that ongoing advocacy is key to making sure more women and girls are able to experience the lifelong impact of participation in sports. “When you look at what activities change someone’s life trajectory, nothing propels people the way sports participation does,” she says. “Athletes get more education than their non-athletic peers, they're healthier, they earn more money over a lifetime—in fact, a recent study found that 94% of C-suite women were also athletes. Beyond that, it’s knowing and having a relationship with our own bodies and learning to push through adversity. A sports experience is life-changing.”
From left: Former professional tennis player Billie Jean King, Nancy, physician and retired NASA astronaut Mae Carol Jemison and superintendent of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Rear Adm. Sandra Stosz testify before a Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee hearing in Washington, D.C., about the impact of Title IX forty years after its passage. (Photo by Pete Marovich/ZUMAPRESS. com)
CURRENTLY, WOMEN RECEIVE A STAGGERING $1.1 BILLION LESS IN COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC SCHOLARSHIPS WHEN COMPARED WITH THEIR MALE COUNTERPARTS.
Source: Champion Women, based on data from the Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act (EADA)
From the Golden Arrow to Olympic Gold
As a collegiate rower with Olympic aspirations, Connecticut Beta TAYLOR RITZEL was captivated by the Beijing Olympic races while training at a hotel gym in 2008. Watching the Women’s Eight rowing event, she was inspired by the power and tenacity of California Beta ERIN CAFARO, whose gold medal win instilled hope in Taylor that her own Olympic dreams might be possible. Four years later, the two found themselves at the starting line of the 2012 Summer Olympics together, kindling a profound friendship which would impact their lives.
Erin and Taylor both harbored a strong passion for sports growing up, each with unique interests. Erin involved herself in a variety of sports, craving the dynamic of being on a team, while Taylor was a competitive swimmer at heart. When it came time to attend college, both aspired to pursue their athletic careers—Erin with hopes of joining her university’s basketball team and Taylor with determination to continue swimming. However, they were both introduced to rowing as novices and dove into the sport despite initial hesitations.
From its unique community to fierce competition, Erin and Taylor both grew to love rowing and all that it offered. Their ambition led them to win NCAA championships and
later join the U.S. Women's National Rowing Team—Erin first in 2006 and Taylor in 2010. As a younger athlete joining the team, Taylor initially struggled to feel a sense of belonging, but it was Erin who changed that experience entirely. “What I loved about Erin is that she welcomed us newer teammates,” Taylor shares. “She was someone on the team everyone wanted to replicate.”
While collegiate athletes require significant strength and dedication, professional athletes face an even greater test of one’s resilience. Although the two were in different stages of their careers when they met, Erin instantly felt drawn to Taylor’s optimism. “It was a difficult training program, some people were easily stressed and took it out on others, but Taylor was consistently smiling,” Erin recalls. “I knew she was going to be a good teammate; what makes the boats go is when someone can add to the positive momentum.”
Despite the rigorous and competitive training, Erin and Taylor fostered a strong bond as they prepared for the 2012 Summer Olympics. Their connection stemmed from sharing not only a positive outlook, but also values and experiences in Pi Phi sisterhood. They discovered this mutual bond from a casual conversation about their
The U.S. Women's National Rowing Team who won a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics. From left: Caryn Davies, Caroline Lind, Eleanor Logan, Meghan Musnicki, Mary Whipple Murray, Connecticut Beta TAYLOR RITZEL , Esther Lofgren, Susan Francia and California Beta ERIN CAFARO
collegiate years. As college students who balanced the responsibilities of both sorority and athletic life, connecting with people from various backgrounds felt natural to them. “Having that perspective helped us excel on the team,” Erin says. “Rowing is about teamwork, but it's more so about connecting to someone and helping them see their potential.”
Taylor similarly believes that unity between athletes forms the foundation for a resilient team. “We’re all highly competitive women driven to win,” she says. “Pi Phi gave us the ability to listen, learn and be curious about others and what motivates them, all while being a good teammate.”
Erin and Taylor’s relationship was also defined by their unwavering ambition, even in the face of adversity. In rowing, one of the most common injuries is breaking a rib due to the contraction of muscles and intensive breathing which creates both internal and external pressure. “Going so hard you break your own bone says something about a person, and Taylor and I were both plagued by this,” Erin shares. “When it's high stakes, you want someone like that by your side who would row through a brick wall for you. Taylor and I had this mutual respect because we knew we would push past the pain even if it broke us.”
When it came time to race at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, Erin and Taylor were fueled by this ambition, prepared to overcome any obstacles in their path. However, that didn't prevent nerves from surfacing, especially for Taylor’s first Olympic race. “When we finally got to the starting line, I was suddenly so nervous—this was the biggest race of my life,” Taylor shares. To calm herself, Taylor looked to the other women with her, drawing strength from one of her early inspirations—Erin. “I was in the boat with six women who had already won on the Olympic stage, and Erin was a huge part of that. I had these women by my side, so I just told myself to do what I knew how to do.”
Despite injuries and doubts, the U.S. Women's National Rowing Team won gold, with Erin and Taylor sharing the remarkable experience alongside one another. Reflecting on this moment, it's not the win they remember most, but the flood of emotions that followed. “Something not often shared is that winning has a full range of emotions—it's not just pure joy. I was relieved, sad, excited and scared for what was next. The tears are more loaded than people think they are,” Erin says. “On that podium, I remember thinking: we did it, and I already miss them.”
Although this race marked the end of Erin and Taylor’s shared rowing journey, their bond has only grown stronger over the years. As they have pursued their individual career goals and aspirations, their unwavering support for one another has remained constant. No matter which direction they take, they cheer each other on from afar with the same intensity that propelled them to the podium together.
Pi Phi gave us the ability to listen, learn and be curious about others and what motivates them, all while being a good teammate.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS
OLIVIA
, Ohio Epsilon Resident Leadership Development Consultant, Ohio Zeta at Miami University
TESS KLYGIS, Michigan Beta Leadership Development Consultant
PARIS PAZ, California Zeta Leadership Development Consultant
SABRINA MORRO, Maine Alpha Leadership Development Consultant
Front row, from left:
ATLANTIS HOFSTETTER, Florida Eta Resident Leadership Development Consultant, Ohio Zeta at Miami University
KYRA SCHARNHORST, Idaho Alpha Leadership Development Consultant
HELEN LEMARR, Tennessee Gamma Leadership Development Consultant
Back row, from left:
CASTLE
Game On
As part of their commitment to Read > Lead > Achieve®, Pi Beta Phi's philanthropic effort aimed at inspiring a lifelong love of literacy, Pi Phi chapters across North America have organized competitive ways to engage their communities while raising funds for literacy. Lace up your sneakers, grab your gear and join us as we delve into a few of our favorite sporting spectacles.
ANGELS IN THE OUTFIELD AT KANSAS BETA
Angels in the Outfield is a single elimination, slow-pitch softball tournament held on Kansas State University recreation fields. All chapter members participate through various roles at the event including coaching teams, handing out food, overseeing check-in and umpiring. The tournament is open to everyone, and, in its third year, is becoming a popular tradition— particularly through their collaboration with community groups and businesses.
“This was the most successful year yet because we managed to have practically no costs,” says Kansas Beta Vice President Community Relations EMMA SCHILLING . “The fields were rented for free, and all the food was donated. Something I learned from helping with this event was that it never hurts to ask people to donate on behalf of philanthropy.”
ARROWSPIKE AT SOUTH CAROLINA ALPHA
Arrowspike has been a longstanding tradition at the University of South Carolina. South Carolina Alpha's annual sand volleyball tournament includes teams
ranging from fraternities and sororities to campus clubs and club sports teams. Through events like Arrowspike, the chapter aims to ignite a passion for reading and learning while building awareness on the importance of literacy.
“Being able to read, write and understand information opens a whole world of possibilities," says South Carolina Alpha Vice President Community Relations CASSIE HONEYCUTT. "You can dive into books, articles and resources, and learn whatever you want, whenever you want. It's like having the keys to a treasure chest of knowledge."
“Whether it's teaming up with local schools, hosting literacy events or partnering with impactful community organizations, we're all about making a difference wherever we can,” says Cassie. “At the end of the day, our goal is to leave a legacy of literacy.”
DODGE THE ARROW AT TEXAS ZETA
Dodge the Arrow is Texas Zeta's dodgeball tournament open to the Baylor community, with women, men and co-ed divisions. The entire chapter engages in planning and executing the event—participating as players,
referees and in promotional activities like tabling and profit shares. The event attracts broad participation from the Baylor and Waco communities with 700 attendees raising $6,000 in 2024.
“This year, we added a book drive to accompany the week leading up to the event,” says Texas Zeta Vice President Community Relations RILEY WADDELL . “We collected more than 500 books to be donated to South Waco Elementary—the school we partner with for the Champions Are Readers® program.”
The chapter aims to continue its literacy legacy, addressing children's illiteracy and expanding literacy programs in Waco schools. Their philanthropy events are key to their community involvement and commitment to promoting Read > Lead > Achieve.
HOOPS FOR HALOS AT KENTUCKY ALPHA
Hoops for Halos is Kentucky Alpha’s annual three-on-three single-elimination basketball tournament. Each team consists of four players, and chapter members participate as event monitors, officials and enthusiastic fans.
The tournament is open to the entire University of Louisville community. After its seven-year history, the event is a favorite among chapter and community members, who look forward to it each year.
Literacy support is a unifying cause for Kentucky Alphas. “Many of our alumnae teach locally,” says Kentucky Alpha Vice President Community Relations KAYLIE ZEIMEN . “We do our best to support their efforts to create a more literate generation through donations, book drives and other opportunities!”
SEPTEMBER IS READ > LEAD > ACHIEVE MONTH
Every September, Pi Beta Phi celebrates Read > Lead > Achieve Month. We invite you to join thousands of sisters across North America to inspire a lifelong love of reading throughout the month of September and all year long. There are countless ways to celebrate, scan the QR code to find something that is meaningful for you.
1. From left: Kansas Betas JULIA RIEGER, RYLIE REICHENBERGER and KARODY KADEL . 2. From left: South Carolina Alphas TARA TRZECIAK and PAIGE MONEY. 3. Back row, from left: LAUREN LEYH and BROOKE BLACK. Front row, from left: SOPHIA BOYCE, RILEY WADDELL and LANDRIE BEELER. 4. From left: GRACE WOOD and ERICA BUNNING
Threads of Community Connection
In the heart of St. Louis stands Sign of the Arrow—a renowned needlepoint shop that weaves together tradition, artistry and community. Step inside and you'll find yourself surrounded by the vibrant colors of artwork, the soft textures of threads and an inviting atmosphere of creativity. Whether you're a seasoned or novice needlepoint stitcher, there's something for everyone within these walls.
At the helm of this historic establishment is General Manager JULIE ANN SCHNEIDER FILEAN, Iowa Eta, and Board Chair TRACY SHAVER HOLTZMAN, North Carolina Beta, who have devoted decades in service to Sign of the Arrow.
Established in 1966 by nine members of the St. Louis, Missouri, Alumnae Club, Sign of the Arrow began as a nonprofit consignment shop. “The alumnae club regularly put on a boutique craft fair called Carousel,” says Julie. "After a couple years of bad weather and leftover crafts, one of these nine women said, ‘well, maybe we should just start a store and sell our stuff.”’
The shop's rich history is a testament to the dedication of its volunteers and supporters. With more than 80
volunteers lending their time and talents, Sign of the Arrow thrives as an example of the power of collective effort and shared passion. From the board members overseeing its operations to the dedicated volunteers manning the sales floor, each plays a vital role in upholding the shop's legacy.
But the shop is more than just a haven for stitchers— it's a hub of philanthropy and community engagement. “We are the fundraising arm of the St. Louis Alumnae Club,” says Julie. “That's always been the backbone of the shop.”
Over the decades, Sign of the Arrow has remained committed to its mission of giving back to the St. Louis community, fostering a deep sense of friendship among Pi Phi sisters and community members. “They actually incorporated as the 1867 Foundation,” says Tracy. “Supporting the greater community is written into the mission and it continues to be the shop's mission to this day.”
Each year, the shop's proceeds are channeled into grants for local organizations, supporting causes ranging from education to healthcare. "Our grants don't contribute
From left, Tracy and Julie inside Sign of the Arrow.
to general funds maintenance,” says Tracy. "Recipients ask for something to meet a specific need—equipment for a project or funds to tutor ten children." Guided by a dedicated committee, these grants aim to uplift the community and make a tangible difference in people's lives—whether it's funding a summer lunch program or providing scholarships to college-bound students.
From its humble beginnings in a small storefront to its current home, the shop has remained steadfast in its commitment to serving others, and Sign of the Arrow recently celebrated a historic milestone—donating more than $4 million to over 200 organizations in the St. Louis community.
From its earliest days, Sign of the Arrow has been a loyal supporter of Pi Phi, embodying the spirit of service and generosity that defines our sisterhood. Julie notes the St. Louis Club’s dedication to empowering collegiate women to reach their full potential.
"We want to ensure more collegiate women can continue their education and sorority membership, despite whatever hardships come to them," says Julie. "We know it's become increasingly expensive for young women to go to college.”
In 1996, at Sign of the Arrow’s 30th anniversary celebration, a special gift of $25,000 was given to Pi Beta Phi Foundation to endow a scholarship in memory of Missouri Beta MELISSA GAIL APTMAN a local collegian who was tragically killed two weeks before her graduation. Since 1997, 34 Pi Phis have received the scholarship totaling more than $250,000.
While reflecting on all that Sign of the Arrow has already accomplished, Julie and Tracy look toward the future with a sense of purpose and optimism. "In the last year, we started an endowment fund for Sign of the Arrow to make sure there's always funds available for our charitable gifts—no matter what,” says Julie. Whatever the future may hold, Sign of the Arrow stands ready to weave its legacy into the fabric of the St. Louis community and Pi Phi's sisterhood for generations to come.
HEADED TO ST. LOUIS? STOP BY SIGN OF THE ARROW TO VISIT THE NEW EXPANSION.
Upper, from left: Missouri Beta ANNE TRAVIS O'CONNEL , New York Delta JULIA MATHER SCHNUCK and Missouri Beta MARGARET DAVISON MCCLURE in front of the Sign of the Arrow's 9740 Clayton Road location.
Lower: Checkout at Sign of the Arrow's original location at 9666 Clayton Road.
9814 Clayton Road
St. Louis, Missouri 63124
Shop online any time at signofthearrow.com
the Court
As a collegiate basketball player for Stanford University who went on to have a seven-year career in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), California
JAYNE APPEL MARINELLI understands the intricacies of women’s basketball. While her love for the game is undeniable, Jayne also recognizes the barriers within women’s sports. Now, as the Senior Vice President of Player Relations for the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA), Jayne’s mission is to not only champion the success of women’s basketball, but also fiercely advocate for players’ rights and well-being.
As an athlete from a young age, Jayne played numerous sports throughout her childhood, including basketball, which she discovered through her father. Excelling in the sport, Jayne eventually received a basketball scholarship to Stanford University, which launched her professional athletic career. Alongside becoming a collegiate athlete, Jayne found her way to Pi Phi sisterhood— another place she called home besides the court. “I had to ask for permission to make sure I could do both basketball and join a sorority,” Jayne explains.
“My coach, Tara Vanderveer, said if I could manage both, she wanted me to have
As she managed the high demands of collegiate athletics, Pi Phi allowed Jayne to step away from the court and recharge when necessary. “When basketball was frustrating, or we had a tough game, I could leave that on the court and just be a college student,” Jayne shares. “I loved being part of a different world. To my sisters, I wasn’t Jayne the basketball player—I was just Jayne.”
At the end of her collegiate basketball career, Jayne’s exceptional talent led her to being drafted fifth by the San Antonio Stars. For the next seven years of her life as a WNBA player, Jayne was immersed in the sport she loved most—but it was her teammates that made the experience worthwhile. “If you ask me what I miss most, it’s sharing the common goal of wanting to win a championship with my teammates,” she says. While Jayne remembers this experience fondly, she also recalls the difficulty in transitioning to professional athleticism. “I don’t think college students realize there are many more steps than just showing up to play basketball. You're responsible for holding yourself accountable. Your body is your job, and you have to treat it that way.”
After a notable career in the WNBA, Jayne eventually retired to focus on raising a family with her husband. Unfortunately, the WNBA and WNBPA collective bargaining agreement did not support family planning at the time, often leaving players feeling like they had to choose between their personal and professional lives. As someone who faced this decision herself, Jayne has made it part of her mission to fight for the rights of athlete-parents. “One of the proudest moments in my career is pushing for our players who have children and want to start a family to be fully paid and retain their job,” Jayne shares. “I want to protect them because it wasn’t an option for me. Now we have more player parents than we’ve ever had, and it’s amazing to watch these players start a family and feel supported. They’re rockstars with their baby in a stroller right next to them at practices and games on the court.”
When Jayne was a WNBA player, she aspired to leave the game better than she found it, and coming into her role as Senior Vice President of Player Relations has helped fulfill this passion. In addition to advocating for player parents, Jayne represents all players in the WNBA and everything which encompasses their working conditions. “We fight every day to make the experience and opportunities as great as possible for these players who deserve to be treated as world class athletes,” she explains. “We’re there for our players on and off the court.”
From Jayne’s perspective, the key to bettering the landscape of women’s sports is more representation.
“From my daughter's basketball team to professional sports, we need to get rid of the old narratives and see more representation—we need to provide space for women in sports to be seen and invested in,” Jayne says. “I’ve been involved with the game for a long time, and it’s exciting to see how women’s basketball is growing in popularity, but the chance to play in the WNBA is still so small. I want more people to engage in women’s sports so we can create more opportunities.”
Understanding the root of the issue is the first step to driving change, and Jayne’s personal insights have equipped her to lead and advocate with authenticity. From being a player herself to now standing beside the women she represents, Jayne’s impact in the WNBA and the broader scope of women’s sports extends far beyond the court, shaping athletes' futures for generations to come.
Jayne works her way around an opponent during the first half of the semi-final game of the Women's Final Four at the Scottrade Center in St. Louis on April 5, 2009. (Photo by UPI Photo/Bill Greenblatt via Alamy)
ALABAMA
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Alumnae Club
In March 2024, the Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Alumnae Club held its annual Senior Supper at the home of Alabama Beta DIANNA FLEMMING . This ceremony to recognize collegiate seniors has been a tradition for the club for decades, and Dianna has opened her home for this event many times. Wine and blue flowers were spread throughout the home along with angel wings on her mailbox to welcome members.
ARIZONA
Arrowhead-West Phoenix, Arizona, Alumnae Club
The Arrowhead-West Phoenix, Arizona, Alumnae Club celebrated Founders’ Day with a luncheon at Briarwood Country Club. At this event, several alumnae were also recognized for their membership anniversaries. Iowa Gamma SALLY BLANCHARD VAN WERT and Illinois Alpha SYBIL ROOT EBERHART received the club’s Sapphire Award—a 65-year membership recognition—Kansas Beta DENISE SALMON BROWNLEE and Minnesota Alpha BARBARA ORVIS HALL received Golden Arrow pins and Arizona Beta LAUREN CONTRERAS was recognized for 10 years of membership and received the club’s Pearl Award. Additionally, the club brought a featured speaker to the event, Kim Goetz, who is a special needs teacher at Nadaburg Elementary School and received the club’s Scholarship Literacy Grant.
Phoenix, Arizona, Alumnae Club
The Waste Management Phoenix Open, known as the "Greatest Show on Grass," has been a major PGA Tour event in Arizona since 1932, attracting more than 700,000 visitors annually. For the past 50 years, Phoenix Panhellenic has supported the event by providing volunteers for concession shifts. Each shift filled results in a donation that funds academic scholarships for local sorority women. This year, Phoenix Panhellenic filled 418 shifts, with Pi Beta Phi volunteers covering 96 shifts. More than $96,000 was raised for scholarships awarded in April 2024. Among the recipients was California Lambda KAITLIN DAILEY D'AMICO, a Phoenix, Arizona, Alumnae Club member pursuing a Ph.D. in History.
Upper: Members of the Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Alumnae Club and Alabama Beta seniors as the Senior Supper event.
Lower, from left: Denise and Barbara with their Golden Arrow certificates.
CALIFORNIA
California Eta Alumnae
In May, over 150 California Eta alumnae and collegians gathered at the University of California, Irvine Student Center to celebrate the chapter's 50th anniversary. Attendees heard about the chapter’s early days from Illinois Eta FRANCIA HOELTGEN HARRINGTON, past Resident Leadership Development Consultant who helped establish the chapter, California Eta VIVAN CARR KERR and California Beta PATTY JONES JENNESS, past South Coast Alumnae Club President who provided essential support. Five members of the first California Eta New Member Class were also honored as Golden Arrows at the celebration.
FLORIDA
Clearwater, Florida, Alumnae Club
The Clearwater, Florida, Alumnae Club celebrated Founders’ Day by combining its annual event with the Tampa, Florida, Alumnae Club. Members of both clubs met for an afternoon of food, fellowship and sharing their favorite memories from collegiate life. At this event, Indiana Epsilon NANCY COX LAHR was presented with her Diamond Arrow certificate and pin in recognition of her 75 years as a member.
GEORGIA
Georgia Alpha Alumna JANET NEAL WARD recently launched her footwear brand QUADsis® with co-founder Stephanie Guido. When Janet’s daughter was in second grade, she was wearing a woman’s shoe size 7, and it was nearly impossible for her to find shoes both comfortable and appealing. From there, a passion to find a solution began, and after much support and encouragement, Janet and Stephanie built QUADsis to help pre-teen girls and young women feel comfortable, confident and strong in their bodies.
Upper, from left: California Etas TINA BRISKI FELLERS and TONI MARTINOVICH with the event attendees.
Middle, from left: Clearwater, Florida, Alumnae Club President JENNIFER VAUGHN BARKWAY Michigan Alpha, and Nancy with her Diamond Arrow certificate and pin.
Lower, from left: Georgia Alpha JANET NEAL WARD
Janet, Molly Moody, Sofia Shim, Brooke Ward, Lily Hoban, Katherine Jacobs, Katherine Ward, Caroline Guido and Stephanie.
KANSAS
Greater Kansas City Alumnae Club
Kansas Alpha MARY SWANSON ENGEL received her Diamond Arrow badge at the club's May monthly interest group “Out to Lunch Bunch.” The badge was presented by her daughter, Kansas Alpha CAROL ENGEL POPPE . Mary served as Music Committee Chair from 1968-1979 and 1991-1993.
MISSISSIPPI
Mississippi Beta Alumna
The Mississippi Beta Chapter recently gained a new alumna initiate, and they could not be more excited to welcome TAMMY SULLIVAN into their sisterhood. She was joined by her daughter, NELL SULLIVAN , who currently serves as Chapter President. Tammy is thrilled to be a Pi Phi and share this experience with her daughter.
NEBRASKA
Omaha, Nebraska, Alumnae Club
In May, the Omaha, Nebraska, Alumnae Club presented its Founders' Day Award to Iowa Gamma ANN HERALD CHRISTIANSEN . This award was established in 1987 to honor an Omaha, Nebraska, Alumnae Club member each year who has dedicated herself to the ideals of our Fraternity, service to our organization and devotion to our sisterhood.
Upper, from left: Mary and Carol.
Middle, from left: Past Grand President MARLA NEELLY WULF, Kansas Beta, Tammy and Nell.
Lower, from left: Michigan Alpha ASHLEY PIEPER presenting the club’s Founders’ Day Award to Ann.
NEW MEXICO
New Mexico Beta Alumnae
Inspired by memories from their time at New Mexico State University, a group of New Mexico Beta alumnae decided to give back to the community, naming themselves the Halo Club to support local organizations. So far, their efforts have included packaging lunches for people experiencing homelessness and collecting hygiene items for low-income students.
NEW YORK
New York Delta Alumna
ANNA ESAKI-SMITH recently published a book titled Make College Your Superpower: It’s Not Where You Go, It’s What You Know, which aims to help readers find excitement rather than stress in the college application process. The goal is to empower students to own the college application process through data-based decision making rather than feel like the system is dictating what they must do to achieve success. As someone who understands the higher education landscape and widespread mental health issues in younger generations, Anna’s hope is for this book to offer care and support for students entering the college application process.
Members of New Mexico Beta’s Halo Club with their hygiene kits ready to be donated.
Anna Esaki-Smith.
Rochester, New York, Alumnae Club
The Rochester, New York, Alumnae Club hosted a fun Founders' Day celebration at the Midvale Country Club where they held both the Golden Arrow and Honoring the Founders ceremonies. The club honored two new Golden Arrows, New York Delta SARA RICE CRONIN and Illinois Beta-Delta BARBARA LINDEN HEINTZ .
NORTH CAROLINA
Charlotte, North Carolina, Alumnae Club
The Charlotte, North Carolina, Alumnae Club recently established a Young Alumnae Interest Group, where each month recent Pi Phi graduates gather for dinner and other fun activities. This has been a great way for women from various chapters to come together for fun and support in a new city.
Western North Carolina Alumnae Club
At Convention 2023, the Western North Carolina Alumnae Club was established with North Carolina Alpha MORGAN MARSHALL-CLARK accepting the gavel. In May 2024, they held their inaugural Founders’ Day lunch. The club also recently secured a Pi Beta Phi Foundation FDS500 Grant, providing Lucy S. Herring Elementary School with $2,000 to purchase new books and school supplies.
Upper, from left: Barb and Sara after their Golden Arrow recognition.
Middle, from left: South Carolina
Alpha KAYLA TUMBLIN, Michigan
Alpha ABIGAIL YI, South Carolina
Alpha CLAIRE HILDEBRAND CAPPS, South Carolina Alpha JESSICA SILK, South Carolina Alpha RYLEE FOSTER, South Carolina Alpha ANNA SOMERS and North Carolina Delta MIMI DIZES at a Young Alumnae Interest Group gathering.
Lower, from left: Florida Beta FLORENTINE PHILLIPS LIEGEROT and Tennessee Alpha ELIZABETH CLEMMER GRANT at a Western North Carolina Alumnae Club gathering.
TENNESSEE
Nashville, Tennessee, Alumnae Club
Members of the Nashville, Tennessee, Alumnae Club had a great time joining the Tennessee Beta Chapter for its Pink Angels Cookie Shine. From left: Tennessee Betas JANETTE SHELBY SMITH, ANN GEHRET MCKINNEY, EVELYNN NAJORK , LINDSEY MAXWELL , GARRISON MORRILL , LARISSA MOTSCH, BRIANNA JORDAN LEWIS and ASHLEY RENNER SETH
TEXAS
Texas Zeta Alumna
This spring, Texas Zeta BROOKE DOLLENS TERRY teamed up with the Texas Alpha Chapter to organize free book fairs at Title 1 schools, including one at KIPP Alegria in Austin, serving 626 students from Pre-K to 4th grade. With the support of an FDS500 grant funded by Pi Beta Phi Foundation, every child chose a book to take home, contributing to their mission of fostering literacy and imagination in underserved communities. Brooke has used her passion for literacy to start the Austin Chapter of Book Drive for Kids, aiming to provide books to children in need.
Cypress Creek-Northwest Houston Alumnae Club
Members of the Cypress Creek-Northwest Houston Alumnae Club celebrated the club's 50th anniversary with a Cookie Shine and special Founders' Day program about the history of our golden arrow badge.
Upper, back row, from left: Texas Alphas ERIKA BATSON, MARY BUCHEK, KATHERINE MASSEY and KIPP Algeria School leader Terencia Walker. Front row, from left: Texas Alphas ANNA LOVE and ELLIE COCKRELL and Brooke.
Lower: Members of the Cypress Creek-Northwest Houston Alumnae Club celebrating the club’s 50th anniversary with a Cookie Shine.
HOLLAND HOLLAND HOLLAND HOLLAND HOLLAND HOLLAND
couldn’t run because I was so scared. As a female runner, I knew we needed something to feel safe, so I started Chicks with Kicks.”
Chicks with Kicks is a platform for Vanderbilt women to message other female runners on campus and coordinate times to run in pairs or groups. What started as a GroupMe chat one morning was shortly shared with all sororities on campus, and the emerging club gained 50 members in just one day. Caroline was surprised and beyond excited to see the immediate interest. “I’m always looking for new people to meet and run with,” she says. “I never knew so many women on campus were interested in running.” After sharing the GroupMe link with other clubs on campus and promoting the platform to her own Pi Phi chapter, Chicks with Kicks is now nearing 100 members. Caroline has also taken specific safety measures for the club, such as making the group chat a request-only entry.
In just the first few months of the club’s establishment, Chicks with Kicks had already affirmed its core purpose— ensuring women’s safety. After Caroline messaged in the Chicks with Kicks group chat one day asking if anyone wanted to participate in an 18-mile run for her marathon training, two women replied they would join. In the early morning, the three went running on a trail outside the city—one mile in, they noticed a man heading in their direction.
“We instantly knew something was wrong,” Caroline says. “After we ran past him, he started yelling and chasing us. We kept running and called the police after we lost him, who told us this man has been reported before and that he’s carried weapons in the past. All I could think was ‘I’m so glad I wasn’t alone.’ In the middle of the woods, I have no idea how I would’ve handled that—but because of this club, I had two women with me.”
Many women have unfortunately encountered similar situations—oftentimes alone. By creating a realistic option for women to protect themselves and their wellbeing, Caroline has already made progress in advocating and raising awareness for women’s safety. Chicks with Kicks has also proven to be fulfilling for Caroline, as the club has begun to foster connection and comfort amongst women on Vanderbilt’s campus. “The community is so fun,” Caroline shares. “It’s nice to have something that’s not competitive where you can collaborate with and support other women. Running is supposed to be enjoyable, but it can cause a lot of stress nowadays when you’re always looking over your shoulder in fear. This has helped to bring back the enjoyment of running because you’re not constantly on guard.”
Caroline’s passion for this initiative has emboldened since witnessing the direct impact of Chick with Kicks, from actively protecting women to forging new friendships. In envisioning the future, one of Caroline’s highest aspirations is to see the club contribute to a broader culture of safety across more college campuses. Not only do these initiatives raise awareness for women’s safety, but they also offer a source of empowerment—a cause Caroline is dedicated to championing. “In Pi Phi, we talk about how we need to support one another and work together as women,” she shares. “By coming together through running, we encourage one another—we make each other stronger.”
It’s nice to have something that’s not competitive where you can collaborate with and support other women.
CALIFORNIA
California Delta, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
The California Delta Chapter recently hosted its annual “Role Model Weekend,” inviting members' mothers or significant role models to join in memorable activities. The event featured a taco night at the chapter house and a UCLA baseball game with decorations and snacks. The weekend was filled with smiles and laughter, reflecting the deep connections shared by the chapter. This cherished tradition not only strengthens bonds within the chapter but also extends Pi Phi love to family and friends.
California Lambda, University of California, Riverside
The California Lambda Chapter celebrated Founders’ Day at the University of California, Riverside Alumni and Visitor’s Center. The chapter members had a great time getting to know one another, alumnae and New Members. This event also included recognition awards for sisters who have displayed Pi Phi’s values in their hard work and dedication.
California Zeta, University of California, Barbara
California Zeta was named Chapter of the Year at University of California Santa Barbara’s 2023-2024 Fraternity and Sorority Life awards ceremony. The chapter has made incredible strides, guided by dedicated chapter leadership teams who foster Pi Phi love among members and the community. California Zeta is honored to be recognized for its outstanding work in philanthropy, inclusion and member experience, establishing a glowing presence in the Santa Barbara community and beyond.
Upper: Members of California Lambda at the chapter’s Founders’ Day event.
Lower, from left: GABBY HAYES and PARIS PAZ with California Zeta’s award.
Above, from left: ELLIE ROSING with her mother, Mollie Rosing, at California Delta’s Role Model Weekend.
COLORADO
Colorado Gamma, Colorado State University
The Colorado Gamma Chapter invited alumnae from the greater parts of Colorado to celebrate Founders’ Day at the chapter facility. Chapter members had a wonderful time hearing stories from and reconnecting with alumnae of Pi Beta Phi. Reflecting upon stories of sisterhood, recruitment and campus life made this day incredibly special for those who attended. The chapter members were thrilled to come together to celebrate and are eager to take the next opportunity to deepen these connections.
Colorado Delta, Colorado School of Mines
ELLIE MUELLER recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent Pi Beta Phi at the Fraternal Relations Government Coalition. She lobbied House of Representatives and Congress of Colorado members on anti-hazing legislation and the Freedom of Association Act. Reflecting on the experience, Ellie was grateful to be given this empowering opportunity to advocate on behalf of those in sororities and fraternities.
FLORIDA
Florida Beta, Florida State University
In Spring 2024, the Florida Beta Chapter hosted a Dad's Weekend field day. Members and their families enjoyed energetic games like wheelbarrow races, obstacle courses and leapfrog. The event fostered communication between members and brought their families closer together.
ILLINOIS
Illinois Eta, Millikin University
The Illinois Eta Chapter had an extra special initiation as they initiated their house mom, AMY REYNOLDS, fondly known as “Miss Amy.” Amy has cared for the members of Illinois Eta for more than 11 years, and they can’t thank her enough for her dedicated service to Pi Beta Phi. Guiding Amy through Illinois Eta’s traditions has been meaningful for members who are overjoyed to welcome her into the chapter.
Upper, from left: ANNIKA OSTBERG, JORDAN LEE, HANNA UNTON, KIKI LOCKE HARRIS, MEGAN MONTOYA ALLISON GRAHAM KAYLA HALLBECK and KATHRYN HUSSEY in front of the chapter facility after Colorado Gamma’s Founders’ Day event.
Middle: Florida Betas with their dads at Dad’s Weekend field day.
Lower: Illinois Etas with Amy (top left wearing red shirt) after initiation.
INDIANA
Indiana Alpha, Franklin College
The Indiana Alpha Chapter recently assembled literacy kits for a local elementary school, aiming to support children who lack access to books. Inspired by a former class project, Vice President Community Relations ELIZABETH SEKHON and Director Philanthropy and Service ADDISON CHARLES led the initiative. They secured a $250 donation from Modern Woodmen of America, enabling the chapter to create 42 kits. Each kit included personalized tote bags, books, fun erasers, stickers, pencils, mini flashlights and handwritten notes. Chapter members also spent time reading with the kids when they delivered the kits. SAVANNA VANHOY, a kindergarten teacher and Indiana Alpha alumna, was delighted to see her students receive the kits.
Indiana Gamma, Butler University
In Spring 2024, the Indiana Gamma Chapter honored their seniors with a Senior Ceremony, celebrating their contributions and the lasting impact they’ve had on the chapter and the broader community. The seniors received cards containing well wishes from members and participated in a Cookie Shine with the entire chapter. Indiana Gamma is incredibly proud of this year’s senior class members and is excited to see where their goals and dreams take them in the future.
KANSAS
Kansas Alpha, The University of Kansas Members of Kansas Alpha raised over $14,000 at their 2024 "Pi Phi Pizookie" philanthropy event. From left: MEGAN LEE , ABIGAIL JAMES, LUCIA BRADA , GENTRY STROBLE and ADDYSON PICKWORTH
Above:
Above, from left: Elizabeth, Savanna and Addison.
Indiana Gamma Spring 2024 graduating seniors.
KENTUCKY
Kentucky Alpha, University of Louisville
In March 2024, the Kentucky Alpha Chapter received news about a closed school with a library full of books. Members quickly mobilized, filling box after box and using nearly three cars to transport the books back to their chapter suite. The chapter donated the books to two local schools and filled several little libraries around Louisville just in time for summer. Kentucky Alpha remains dedicated to helping students reach their full potential by ensuring access to reading materials for all children in the greater Louisville area.
MISSISSIPPI
Mississippi Alpha, University of Southern Mississippi
In Spring 2024, Mississippi Alpha held their annual Fraternity Day of Service celebration at a local public library. They invited children from local schools, daycares and churches to participate in arts and crafts with the chapter members, engage in free play and listen to story tellings performed by chapter members. More than 100 children participated, and every child went home with a free book!
Mississippi Gamma, Mississippi State University
On April 4, Mississippi Gamma celebrated the 15 th anniversary of the chapter’s charter. The chapter members marked this special occasion with a birthday cake during their Founders’ Day celebration. This event honored both Pi Phi’s founding and the chapter's anniversary, providing members a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the joy of having Pi Beta Phi in their lives.
MISSOURI
Missouri Gamma, Drury University Missouri Gammas ABBEY OLIVER and LANDRY PARNELL studied abroad in France to immerse themselves in the culture and practice the language. There, they met Michigan Alpha FAITH NIEKAMP. Bonding over their shared Pi Phi experiences, Landry said, “Knowing there was another Pi Phi in this town far from home made me feel less alone.” Their connection in a different country highlighted the Lifelong Commitment and influence of Pi Beta Phi.
Upper: Indiana Gamma Spring 2024 graduating seniors.
Middle, from left: Mississippi Alphas at their annual Fraternity Day of Service celebration.
Lower: Faith, Landry and Abbey during their study abroad trip.
OHIO
Ohio Zeta, Miami University
During Ohio Zeta’s reinstallation weekend in Spring 2024, Indiana Epsilon AMY BETH HILGENDORF LUMSDEN had the special honor of pinning her daughter, MOLLIE LUMSDEN, during the Initiation Ceremony. Mollie feels privileged to be part of the newly initiated class and is eager to share this sisterhood with her mom.
OREGON
Oregon Alpha, University of Oregon
With the help of Director Service and Philanthropy HALEY FLAHAVAN and Vice President Community Relations MONROE LACOSTE , Oregon Alpha has reinstated its Champions are Readers® program at Riverbend Elementary. More than 20 members read to kindergartners and first graders each week, and the initiative was so successful over one term that it has extended into a year-long program.
SOUTH CAROLINA
South Carolina Beta, Clemson University
In March 2024, the South Carolina Beta Chapter celebrated Fraternity Day of Service with a book fair at a local elementary school. Members donated and sorted more than 500 books and prepared goodie bags for every student and reading level. On the day of the event, members distributed books and treat bags, which included candy, crayons and a Pi Phi sticker.
TEXAS
Texas Gamma, Texas Tech University
Texas Gamma hosted its first Barbecue for Books fundraiser in April 2024 planned by Vice President Community Relations GRACIN BONNER and Director Service and Philanthropy HAYLIE GARDINER . Their vision was a barbecue cook-off between fraternities, featuring live bands and food trucks to create an enjoyable atmosphere for members, friends and families while raising money for their philanthropy. With the help of many chapter volunteers, the event featured cornhole games and performances by two local bands. Through this event, Texas Gamma raised more than $11,000.
Upper: Amy, Mollie and Mollie’s father at Ohio Zeta’s reinstallation.
Lower middle, from left: South Carolina Betas KRISTIN RIGGS and JULIA AMAZZO at their chapter’s book fair.
Lower, from left: Texas Gammas HANNAH LOCKETT, PAIGE RIDDLE, HEATHER MCNABB, ABBYGAIL WELKER and PIPER ACTKINSON
VIRGINIA
Virginia Gamma, College of William and Mary
During the spring semester, the Virginia Gamma Chapter participated in Impact Week, a community-wide fundraising competition. Representing the Arc of Greater Williamsburg, a non-profit assisting adults with developmental disabilities, chapter members eagerly signed up for tabling shifts and engaged with the student body. Their enthusiasm and dedication helped them earn more than $1,500 for the cause. Virginia Gamma’s efforts earned the chapter the Excellence in Philanthropy Award from the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.
Virginia Theta, Washington and Lee University
In Spring 2024, Virginia Theta hosted Midnight Breakfast for the sororities on campus to kick off exam week at Washington and Lee University. Held at the Virginia Theta Chapter house, the event offered breakfast foods and activities like friendship bracelet making, DIY sugar scrubs and karaoke. Reviving this tradition excited members, boosted spirits during finals and strengthened bonds between Panhellenic members, allowing them to enjoy time with their sisters and friends from other sororities.
WASHINGTON
Washington Beta, Washington State University
In Spring 2024, Washington Beta organized "Phlower Power," a philanthropic event to spread love and literacy in Pullman, Washington. In celebration of Valentine's Day, the chapter sold bouquets of flowers with sweet treats and teddy bears. Each bouquet included a card with literacy facts to raise awareness about Pi Phi’s philanthropy. The chapter raised $725 for Pi Beta Phi Foundation, promoting literacy and lifelong learning.
WASHINGTON D.C.
D.C. Alpha, George Washington University
In March 2024, the D.C. Alpha Chapter organized two initiatives run by Vice President Inclusion SUJA SRINIVASAN . In honor of Women's History Month, the chapter hosted a fundraiser to support an organization called “I Support the Girls,” which provides bras and menstrual hygiene products for people in need. The D.C. Alpha Chapter sold homemade chocolate-covered strawberries and raised more than $400. D.C. Alpha also started a Pi Phi book club where members got to choose a diversity, equity and inclusion-related book to read over spring break and discuss together once back on campus.
WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Epsilon, University of Wisconsin–Green Bay Wisconsin Epsilon invited professors Corinne Mathieu and Samantha Meister from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay's (UWGB) education department to do an informational session with the chapter on working with children in schools. This helped prepare members for implementing the Champions are Readers® program.
Upper, from left: Washington Betas BELLA FEWEL , MORGAN MOORE and ISABELLA CUNNINGHAM at the Phlower Power table.
Lower: Members of Wisconsin Epsilon with professors from UWGB at their informational session.
Honoring Our 75-Year Diamond Arrow Members
This year, members of the 1949 New Member class celebrated their Lifelong Commitment to our Fraternity by joining the Order of the Diamond Arrow. Please join the Fraternity in celebrating the membership of our Diamond Arrows. The following members requested certificates to honor 75 years of sisterhood in Pi Beta Phi.
Diana Gonser Arthur Ohio Beta
Ann Taylor Beresford North Carolina Beta
Mary Ann Kester Borchers Colorado Alpha
Margaret Jordan Brooks Arizona Alpha
Clara Willoughby Cargile Texas Alpha
Marie Bullard Chandler Arkansas Alpha
Lois Gillan Chandler Kansas Beta
Anna Stewart Cox Florida Alpha
Nancy Sines Crabb Indiana Gamma
Martha Ellison Cunningham Louisiana Beta
Charlotte Laing Dahl Kansas Beta
Ann Emmert Davis North Carolina Alpha
Vera Stenger Dickey Missouri Alpha
Mary Swanson Engel Kansas Alpha
Mary Lou Landis Esterline Indiana Beta
Betty Ahner Fields Vermont Alpha
Molly McCurdy Foster Ohio Beta
Majorie Iba Giles Indiana Gamma
Justyn Sutherland Harding Iowa Zeta
Carolyn Metzger Harmon Missouri Beta
June Harlow Harter Missouri Beta
Margaret Walker Hays Maryland Beta
Louise Ratliff Hazlette
Oklahoma Alpha
Mary Lou Beatty Henderson Indiana Alpha
Dorothy Brush Hoppenstand Ohio Beta
Margaret Partin Inghram Florida Alpha
Sally Webb Kish Iowa Zeta
Jean von Detten Kunberger Colorado Alpha
Nancy Cox Lahr Indiana Epsilon
Elizabeth Thompson Liljestrom California Delta
Barbara Smith MacTaggart Virginia Gamma
Ann Gabelman Mahurin Missouri Alpha
Beverly Hoffman McCall Florida Gamma
Joan Blalock McLean Florida Beta
Patricia Riggs Mercer Kansas Alpha
Barbara Blair Meyer Iowa Gamma
Barbara Cameron Murphy Massachusetts Alpha
Grace Giller Nail Alabama Beta
Joann Gailes Pace Oklahoma Beta
Diane Schuller Prather Illinois Theta
Mary Graham Quigley Colorado Beta
Barbara Short Robinson
Massachusetts Alpha
Anne Bailey Rudy Indiana Gamma
Mary E. Schmidt Ohio Alpha
Phyllis Eschbach Schulz Iowa Zeta
Gwyneith Brusso Schweppe Washington Beta
Marjorie Wylde Shortall Maine Alpha
Anne Trowbridge Sidey Missouri Alpha
Sue Ellison Simmons Oklahoma Alpha
Marilyn Banker Smith Ohio Delta
Carolyn Ingham Stern Wisconsin Gamma
Adelaide Benson Stevenson South Dakota Alpha
Margaret Kiel Stockton Missouri Alpha
Martha Ann Galloway Ware Alabama Alpha
Mary Van Blarcum Weigel Kansas Beta
Mercedes Baker Whittington Texas Alpha
Rosemary Smith Wilson Oklahoma Beta
Anne Matthews Wood Texas Beta
Sisters in Sports
By Historian and Archivist FRAN DESIMONE BECQUE, New York Alpha
In an era when societal norms often confined women to traditional roles, the five Elberfeld sisters broke the mold with lives rich in academic and athletic achievements. Born within a span of seven years, Nan, Miriam, Edith, Dot and Ruth Elberfeld embodied perseverance, dedication and sisterhood—each blazing her own trail while collectively leaving an indelible mark on their community and beyond.
The eldest, Nan, was the first to join Pi Beta Phi at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 1924. Miriam and Edith followed in 1926, Dot in 1928 and Ruth in 1929. Their shared accomplishments in life were not only a testament to their family’s values, but also to Pi Beta Phi’s mission to uplift and empower women.
The Elberfeld sisters’ father, Norman “Tabasco Kid” Elberfeld, a professional baseball player turned manager, instilled a genuine love for sports in his children. Growing up, the Elberfelds traveled with their father's career, spending winters camping in Florida and being homeschooled by their mother Emily Grace Catlow until high school. Despite their unique lifestyle, the children thrived and their passion for sports only strengthened.
Emboldened by their father’s career, the sisters were just as impressive athletes as they were scholars. They were all members of the Life Saving Corps of the American National Red Cross, teaching water safety. They excelled in diving, tennis, basketball and even boxing, with Ruth and Dot showcasing boxing exhibitions. Alongside their diverse interests, the sisters were also skilled swimmers and taught lessons during summers.
Championing their longstanding love of sports, the sisters formed their own basketball team in 1926, becoming the only family to field a women’s team at the time. Their shirts were emblazed with “Elberfeld Sisters” on the front, a great effort considering this type of clothing was not easily made. Even though women-led teams were uncommon, and they were not paid to play basketball, the Amateur Athletic Union still classed them as a professional team.
As the Elberfeld sisters grew into adulthood, they honored their own individual goals and aspirations. Nan and Edith became high school teachers, while Miriam, Dot and Ruth married and became homemakers. Regardless of the paths taken, their shared love for sports, Pi Phi sisterhood and each other remained at home base.
In 1996, Vermont Beta SHIRLEY NICHOLS CHRISTLIEB received a call from a Delta Gamma friend informing her there were two scrapbooks which belonged to a Pi Phi for sale in a local shop in Fort Myers Beach, Florida. Shirley purchased the scrapbooks and sent them to the Pi Beta Phi archives, preserving a rich history of their extraordinary lives.
From left, Tennessee Alphas NAN ELBERFELD, MIRIAM ELBERFELD WALKER, EDITH ELBERFELD, DOROTHY “DOT” ELBERFELD BLEVINS and RUTH ELBERFELD OVERMYER
In Memoriam
We honor our Pi Phi sisters who have passed away and celebrate their part in our sisterhood.
The list below reflects notification by public obituary received at Pi Beta Phi Headquarters between February 1 and May 31, 2024. Obituaries may be submitted at pibetaphi.org/in-memoriam
Memorial gifts made to Pi Beta Phi Foundation are a loving and lasting way to honor the memory of a beloved Pi Phi sister. To make a memorial gift, please call our Foundation at (636) 256–1357 or visit pibetaphi.org/foundation
Recruitment Specialist - Karli Pep Hansen, Colorado Gamma
APPOINTED OFFICERS
Alumnae Club S upport O fficersSuzanne Smulsky, Michigan Beta; Laurel Ricketts Klinge, Missouri Gamma; Morgan Riley Sexton, Kentucky Gamma
Archivist/Historian - Fran DeSimone Becque, New York Alpha
Arrow in the Arctic Committee MembersBeth Torres, Illinois Zeta (Chair); Leanne Heuchert, Alberta Alpha; Kristi Hanlon Marsh, Tennessee Gamma; Chanelle Mitchell, Ontario Beta
Awards Committee Members - Diane Bielman, California Eta; Alexandra Chamberlain, Indiana Epsilon; Marilyn Clark, Ontario Beta; Martha Tedrow Conway, New Mexico Alpha; Schabahn Straughan Day, Oregon Beta; Tina Briski Fellers, California Eta; Dawn Blout Jensen, Nevada Alpha; Gillian Tobin, Oregon Alpha; Michelle Murrell Willbanks, California Eta
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee Members - Daphney Rose Bitanga, California Eta; Mackenzie Gatti; Millette King, Michigan Alpha; Julie Larsen, Illinois Beta-Delta; Jennifer Mandeville, Virginia Theta; Melissa Azar Nagus, Missouri Alpha; Stephanie Shadwick, Missouri Gamma; Amy Lorenzen Southerland, South Dakota Alpha; Beth Torres, Illinois Zeta; Teresia Williams; Michelle Drouse Woodhouse, California Eta
Holt House Committee Members - Stephanie Shadwick, Missouri Gamma; Fran DeSimone Becque, New York Alpha; Denise Pierce Turnbull, Illinois Alpha Leadership and Nominating CommitteeBetty Lopez Smithgall, Tennessee Gamma (Chair); Jessie Ashton Reed, Alabama Beta; Michelle Hinkley Billard, Michigan Gamma; Jessica Chavez, New Mexico Alpha; Ashlee Janovak, Utah Alpha; Lara Omps-Botteicher, West Virginia Alpha; Nadia Husbands Smid, Ontario Alpha (Chair-elect); Paula Pace Shepherd, Texas Epsilon; Maggie Ibrahim-Taney, Kentucky Alpha
Leadership Development OfficerLisa Masters, Georgia Alpha
Investment Committee - Danielle Thorsen, Virginia Zeta
Finance Committee - Donna Butterworth, Virginia Eta
Governance and Nominations CommitteeKim Barger Durand, Oregon Alpha
NATIONAL
PANHELLENIC CONFERENCE APPOINTMENTS
These individuals were selected and appointed by the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC).
NPC Area Advisor – Oriana Bertucci, Ontario Gamma; Nicole Bridges Lancaster, Kentucky Alpha; Kathi Caldwell Kleinman, Arizona Alpha; Brittany Head, Indiana Gamma; Gretchen Stahl Foran, Indiana Theta; Kayla McCarthy Erlandson, Alberta Alpha ; Brittany Welter, Montana Alpha; Hannah Meador, Iowa Gamma; Mynika Martin, West Virginia Alpha; Rae Wohlhueter Maier, Kentucky Beta; Kelly Zudycki Perry, Illinois Zeta; Carol Inge Warren, North Carolina Beta
NPC RFM Specialists – Amanda Reid Austin, Michigan Alpha; Rae Wohlhueter Maier, Kentucky Beta; Casey Talbot VanEpps, New York Eta; Carol Inge Warren, North Carolina Beta
pibetaphi.org
I serve Pi Phi as a volunteer, and I'm grateful for all the friendships and experiences it has brought to my life. I pay my alumnae dues to contribute in a way that often goes unseen but is essential in supporting our sisterhood and helping maintain the Fraternity.
— BECKY BOTTORF CLINES, CALIFORNIA ETA AAC CHAIR FOR CALIFORNIA KAPPA
Before our founders chose our name, our motto or our arrow badge, they came together with a shared purpose—to cultivate Sincere Friendship and create leaders for life. The most meaningful way we can ensure Pi Phis continue to cultivate friendships across generations is through your loyal support.
When you pay your $45 international annual dues, you support Pi Phi programming and leadership development for collegians and alumnae, promote growth and support of chapters and provide vital resources needed to sustain and strengthen our sisterhood.
Pay your dues at pibetaphi.org/dues or by scanning the QR code. ,,
