I never planned to join a sorority: I certainly never imagined being a late-forties, National Vice President kind of sorority girl. But if I could give that young 18-year-old a glimpse of what Alpha Chi Omega will bring her, I’d ask her simply to be open to what may be the biggest surprise of her life.
more than friendship
I’ve found friends who welcomed me to new cities through two cross-country moves, friends who rallied around me through cancer treatment, and women who sat with me through divorce. We’ve parented together, vacationed together, and grieved together. I’ve met people from every corner of our country and across generations, and I’ve learned that so much more brings us together in community than divides us.
These women have changed me. They have pushed me and lifted me up. They haven’t made me into a sorority girl, they have embraced me for all that I bring to sorority.
more than volunteering
I’ve learned to distinguish a profit and loss statement from a balance sheet. I am more practiced and more comfortable speaking publicly. I’m confident leading committees and boards, engaging with wide audiences of people, and mentoring those around me. The leadership opportunities I’ve had as an alumnae volunteer have given me countless tangible skills that I use every day in my personal and professional life.
These opportunities have changed me. They have challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and provided the space to practice new skills.
more than sorority
I never planned to join a sorority because I never knew what sorority could be.
Why Alpha Chi?
Because it continues to be the biggest surprise of my life.
I never imagined I’d find my longest friendships or engage in volunteer experiences that were so applicable to my work. I didn’t expect to find leadership training well into mid-career, networking opportunities as I moved industries, or mentorship in my volunteer service.
I give back because I believe in the experiences and opportunities that Alpha Chi Omega provides. I volunteer because I know firsthand how life-changing it can be to feel seen, supported, and empowered. I stay connected because I hope to be part of someone else’s story: to encourage another woman to take a chance on sorority and let it change her.