Stewarding a Bright Future

Florida Zeta DANA REILLY ’s volunteer journey began as a new graduate in New York City, where she was inspired by the support and leadership of the local alumnae community and the alumnae connections she made as a collegian. Now serving Pi Phi as Alumnae Engagement Director (AED) for Region Two and working as the senior manager of special events at Carnegie Hall, Dana shares what inspired her to get involved, how volunteering has made an impact on her career and why she encourages others to stay connected.

WHY AND HOW DID YOU DECIDE TO START VOLUNTEERING WITH PI PHI?

I decided to start volunteering with Pi Phi as soon as I knew I would be staying in New York City to begin my career. Volunteering for Pi Phi was always part of my plan, as I was greatly influenced by Alumnae Advisory Committee members like Alabama Gamma CAROL CRANE WELLS , Florida Epsilon ANDREA STEINEMANN WIKSTROM and Florida Delta

GEORGIA MALPARTIDA, who supported Florida Zeta when I was a collegian. Pi Phi was central to my joy and ability to thrive at the University of Tampa, so it only made sense to find that same joy in New York City, and I surely did. It was, and always will be, about Lifelong Commitment for me.

I attended my first alumnae event at the home of Virginia Theta MARIEL PEARL , who hosted the annual Thanksgiving party for the New York CityManhattan, New York, Alumnae Club. During the event, they handed out interest forms and I felt so welcomed and inspired to jump in that I checked off the “President” box to mark my interest in potentially leading the club someday. What I did not know is that they were looking to onboard someone right away! Mariel, the outgoing President, was so helpful in transitioning the presidency to me. Because I attended that one event, I was able to lead the club—with the help of a tremendous Executive Board and incredible members—to our Premier Club award in 2019.

HOW HAVE THE SKILLS YOU’VE GAINED AS A VOLUNTEER TRANSLATED TO YOUR CAREER, AND VICE VERSA?

My career has been a huge asset in making me a better volunteer. At Carnegie Hall, my role requires strategic thinking and adaptability to meet fundraising goals— skills that translate directly to my work with Pi Phi.

Volunteering with Pi Phi and engaging with women of diverse backgrounds has also strengthened my confidence in working with all levels of staff. Whether someone is new or more experienced than me, Pi Phi has taught me to take pride in my expertise and lead confidently.

WHAT IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO MAKE THROUGH YOUR WORK?

Pi Phi has a special way of fostering leadership abilities and helping members apply those skills at the right time. Whatever impact I make, I hope my service helps the sisters around me have the best Pi Phi experience. Being an engaged volunteer gives me a chance to bring other Pi Phis into the fold and foster their own volunteer journeys. A lyric from my favorite Broadway play, “Hamilton,” resonates with me: “What is a legacy? A legacy is planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.” I have to imagine this sentiment mirrors how our founders must have felt—if only they could see how we are thriving today!

WHAT WOULD YOU SHARE WITH OTHER SISTERS WHO ARE CONSIDERING VOLUNTEERING WITH PI PHI?

I would tell sisters who are considering volunteering with Pi Phi to jump in and say yes! If you don’t know where to start, reach out to the AED in your region— they will be thrilled to get you connected. If you feel like you don’t have the right experience, shake it off! Pi Phi needs volunteers with different experience and perspectives, and the chances are high that we are looking for someone like you.