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 elimination of special consideration given to legacies:

ANN WANTZ KING, Indiana Zeta, initiated 1963

“Thank you for the updated information on the elimination of preferencing legacies. I am in total agreement.”

PAULA TARTAGLIA PERSSON, New Mexico Alpha, initiated 1988

“It has been over thirty years since I was initiated into Pi Beta Phi and I have taken my pledge seriously – I have always paid my dues and have served the Fraternity on an AAC [Alumnae Advisory Committee] for many years when the call went out for volunteers. Granted, that was many years ago before my family obligations got in the way of service to my Fraternity, but now I find myself as a member of an organization I do not recognize.

Is it good? I don’t know. Is it bad? I don’t know. All I do know is that the organization I have loved and cherished for so many years has somehow become something that I do not completely recognize, and I fear the mission of our founders has gotten muddled in the noise.”

The Fraternity received condolences from Pi Phis and friends on the passing of Grand President Emerita Jean Wirths Scott, a true Friend and Leader for Life. Read more about Jean’s life and legacy on page 8.

SARAH FRENCH DAVIES, Alberta Alpha, initiated 1998

“Jean taught me what it means to be a Pi Phi. She truly upheld and lived all our ideals. The world is a lesser place without her in it. Rest in peace.”

LAURALYN MCCARTHY SANDOVAL, Nevada Alpha, initiated 1988

“I was fortunate enough to be one of the recipients of the change leadership award created in her name. She changed many lives for the better.”

TRACY FURNER STEIN, New York Delta, initiated 1989

“Knowing Mrs. Scott was a great honor for me as a Traveling Graduate Consultant back in the early 1990s. She did so much to further Pi Phi and Panhellenic women. May her memory always be a blessing.”

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 these letters.