The official publication for donors and friends of Pi Beta Phi Foundation
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF PI PHI GIVING DAY
EMPOWERING THE LEADERS OF TODAY AND TOMORROW POINTS OF INTEREST
Message from Leadership
llinois Zeta ALISON VEIT HEAFITZ has been a dedicated Pi Phi volunteer since graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, serving in various roles with the Nation’s Capital Alumnae Club, Virginia Epsilon Chapter House Corporation, as an International Officer, including serving on Grand Council, and now the Pi Beta Phi Foundation Board of Trustees. As we recently celebrated 10 years of Pi Phi Giving Day, Alison reflects on Pi Phi’s growth, its impact on her own journey and the Foundation’s vital role in shaping the organization’s future.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STAY ENGAGED WITH PI PHI AND WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO SUPPORT ITS MISSION?
As someone passionate about Fraternity heritage and ensuring the future of our sisterhood, I appreciate the Foundation’s commitment to preserving Holt House. Passing down our history to future generations of Pi Phis is essential to the longevity of our sisterhood. As a Trustee, I also look forward to connecting with donors and thanking them for their contributions!
HOW HAS YOUR INVOLVEMENT WITH PI PHI SHAPED YOUR PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH?
Pi Phi has been instrumental in helping me develop leadership,
problem-solving and collaboration skills—ones I might not have otherwise gained as a stay-athome mom. The mentorship and experiences I gained through Pi Phi have been invaluable, shaping both my confidence and contributions to my community.
HOW DO YOU SEE THE FOUNDATION CHANGING THE LIVES OF PI BETA PHI MEMBERS?
The Foundation transforms members’ lives in so many ways— through grants to the Fraternity, scholarships and Emma Harper Turner (EHT) Fund disaster relief grants, to name a few. The personal stories shared here in The Bow continually inspire me, showcasing the real and meaningful impact of our Foundation.
WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO CONTINUE GIVING YOUR TIME AND TALENT TO PI PHI?
On a professional level, I am motivated by the opportunity to preserve a women’s organization that fosters leadership, philanthropy and sisterhood for both collegiate and alumnae members. On a personal level, I love my Pi Phi sisters and mentoring Pi Phi leaders of all ages.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SAY TO THOSE WHO GIVE ON PI PHI GIVING DAY?
You are giving to Pi Phi to ensure future women can be part of our sisterhood. Thinking about all the fun and friendships I’ve had since joining in 1996 makes me excited for future Pi Phis to have the same experience. When my daughter goes to college, I will definitely encourage her to join a National Panhellenic Conference member organization so she can experience the same sisterhood I have—both as a collegian and as an alumna.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY FROM PAST PI PHI GIVING DAYS?
One of my favorite memories is when I experienced Pi Phi Giving Day at Headquarters during my
time on Grand Council. The energy was incredible! They had a phone bank set up for us to make thankyou calls, a photo booth and an overall atmosphere of excitement. It was so much fun to share that experience with my Grand Council friends and staff.
WHAT DOES THE 10 TH ANNIVERSARY OF PI PHI GIVING DAY MEAN TO YOU AND HOW IS THIS MILESTONE SIGNIFICANT TO OUR FOUNDATION?
Another incredible milestone!
I remember when Pi Phi Giving Day was first established, and it’s amazing to see how far we’ve come. My hope is that the Foundation will continue to grow—not just in resources, but in the number of members who feel the impact of our support. With the strategic work we’re doing now, I believe we’ll see even more members inspired by the stories of those who have benefited from the Foundation—encouraging even greater support from our sisters.
Celebrating 10 Years of Pi Phi Giving Day
Pi Phi Giving Day is more than a one-day celebration of fun, friendship and giving back—it’s a tradition, a movement that reflects the unwavering love and support we share to ensure our sisterhood thrives for generations. This year marks the 10 th anniversary of Pi Phi Giving Day, a milestone that invites us to reflect on how far we’ve come and all we’ve achieved together. These 10 years have called on us to strengthen our bonds as we honor our history, embrace the present and dream of a bright future.
Oregon Gamma KELLEE
CASEBEER has given on every Pi Phi Giving Day and reflects fondly on her earliest memories of the celebration. “I recall being excited about Pi Phi Giving Day because it was a new project for the Foundation, and I thought it held a lot of promise,” she shares. “Halfway through the day I had this crazy thought that it would be fun to end the final total raised with $18.67. I made one additional donation after all the gifts had been accounted for so we could celebrate Pi Beta Phi’s
Kellee in front of the free library she established at the Bedford, Texas, library.
founding year in our final effort. It’s a tradition I have continued every Pi Phi Giving Day since.”
Kellee appreciates the incredible growth she’s witnessed since the first Pi Phi Giving Day, especially in our Fraternity’s commitment to developing confident leaders. “The past 10 years have been a challenge as we as a society, and as a sisterhood, have navigated change,” she says. “Fortunately, with change comes growth, and I believe Pi Phi has stepped forward with leadership development opportunities for collegians and alumnae—College Weekend, Leadership Institute and even Pi Beta Phi scholarships.”
As our sisterhood looks toward a bright future, we can only begin to dream of the impact Pi Phi Giving Day will have on the next 10 years. “It is my hope that every sister will recognize Pi Phi Giving Day as an opportunity to remind ourselves that the philanthropic work of our Foundation is unifying,” says Kellee. “Our literacy efforts, scholarships, leadership training and support of sisters in need hold true value.”
This mindset holds true, as gifts on Pi Phi Giving Day benefit the Friendship Fund—the most impactful way to help fulfill our promise to every sister. These unrestricted gifts help Pi Phi prepare members to lead, award scholarships, fund our literacy work, support our sisters, manage investments, share our gratitude— and so much more.
Texas Delta SHARON JETT , a Foundation Stewardship Committee Member and Pi Phi Giving Day Challenge Donor, finds inspiration in the past for the future of Pi Beta Phi. “Being a Challenge Donor helps inspire others to give, ensuring challenges are met and funds are unlocked,” she shares. “I’ve watched Pi Phi Giving Day grow in donations, participation and excitement— especially when collegians join in the fun!” Grand President LISA
GAMEL SCOTT , who served on the Foundation Board of Trustees during the inaugural Pi Phi Giving Day, reflects on the power of unity this special day inspires.
“For many organizations, Giving Days are an exciting way to join
others and provide the synergy of collective giving,” she shares. “Nothing is truer for Pi Phis who love to come together with their sisters to make an impact—setting aside time each year to give can
lead to truly transformational work. Pi Phi Giving Day has become an annual tradition that demonstrates the love and support we have for ensuring our sisterhood continues to strengthen into the future.”
Members of the Pi Beta Phi Headquarters staff celebrate the first Pi Phi Giving Day in 2016.
OLSEN , MEGAN FARRIS , PAIGE LEWIS , ALLYSON BURNS , EMMA KAY CLAY , KAITLYN MOORE and LUCY MILLS
Since 2016, sisters and friends have given an astounding $1,677,386.70 to the Friendship Fund, including $205,018.67 this year! Thanks to the generosity of Pi Phi sisters, ambassadors and friends, we have embodied the values of Philanthropic Service to Others and Sincere Friendship, providing the vital resources needed to sustain Pi Beta Phi for the next 10 years and beyond.
To all who have contributed to this remarkable journey, thank you for being part of this legacy of love and giving. See the results from this year at pibetaphi.org/ppgd
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Texas Zeta's Executive Council. From left: SARAH JACKSON , HELENE
Empowering the Leaders of Today and Tomorrow
College Weekend—a threeday leadership development experience—offers invaluable opportunities for collegians and alumnae alike. Whether a newly installed collegiate officer or an Alumnae Advisory Committee (AAC) member, attendees are inspired to lead with confidence by gaining leadership skills and role-specific training while fostering meaningful connections. Two Oklahoma Alphas—Vice President Community Relations KAITLYN COTHRAN and AAC Community Relations LOREN WELSH —share their reflections
from College Weekend and what they took away from the experience.
WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO SPEND A WEEKEND WITH HUNDREDS OF FELLOW PI PHI LEADERS?
Kaitlyn: “College Weekend was an incredibly eye-opening experience for me. I loved hearing the inspiring stories of my sisters and immersing myself in the diversity of members who all share a powerful bond of sisterhood. It truly deepened my gratitude for being part of a community of driven, compassionate women.
Oklahoma Alpha members at College Weekend. Back row, from left: Loren, HEIDI VERPLANK , ALI GASS , OLIVIA WEEMS and Kaitlyn. Front row, from left: KELSEY SPEED , DEDE HAMMER , ANASTASIA WHITE and ELLA BARBUSH .
Loren: It was such an empowering experience. Networking with more than 800 women who share the same values and goals was a wonderful opportunity I am so grateful for.
WHAT IS SOMETHING FROM COLLEGE WEEKEND THAT LEFT AN IMPACT ON YOU?
Loren: Tina Van Steenbergen’s keynote about authentic confidence being a journey resonated with both collegians and alumnae. Her description focused on how we as women have the unique ability to work as a team; we can all make each other’s journeys a little bit easier by providing uplifting, encouraging words.
WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM YOUR PROGRAMMING?
Kaitlyn: I gained a deeper understanding of the different aspects that make up a community. It helped me reflect on how I, as a leader, can better understand and represent all facets of our members.”
WHAT IS SOMETHING FROM COLLEGE WEEKEND THAT LEFT AN IMPACT ON YOU?
I was pleasantly surprised by how many incredible people I had the chance to meet—one of them being Director Community Relations BETH TORRES , Illinois Zeta. Beth went above and beyond in making herself available for meaningful conversations, and she truly made my College Weekend experience unforgettable. We shared honest, intentional discussions that will undoubtedly shape the way I lead my chapter moving forward.
—Kaitlyn
WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM YOUR PROGRAMMING?
Communication skills are crucial for making a lasting impact as a leader. Whether it’s a vocal demonstration or leading by example, great leaders share the ability to guide others toward success. I’m excited to encourage the women of Oklahoma Alpha to identify their strengths and use them to contribute to our organization for the better. The world needs who we were made to be, and Pi Phi provides a nurturing space for every member to grow and learn more about their gifts.
—Loren
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A SISTER ATTENDING COLLEGE WEEKEND IN THE FUTURE?
Kaitlyn: Take the time to connect with the alumnae volunteers at the event. Engaging in intentional conversations with those who have dedicated their time to giving back to our organization can be incredibly valuable. They possess a wealth of knowledge and are a fantastic resource for any aspiring leader.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A PI PHI ALUMNA WHO IS CONSIDERING INVESTING IN THEIR OWN LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT?
Loren: I encourage alumnae to get involved, no matter the role. It’s an investment that not only supports other women but is so rewarding. You never know what you might learn or who you might meet!
WHY DO YOU THINK LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IS SO IMPORTANT?
Kaitlyn: As college students, we’re at a pivotal point in our lives—transitioning into
adulthood. This is the perfect time to develop valuable leadership skills that will empower us to continue spreading positivity and make a meaningful impact on those we serve and connect with.
Loren: Leadership development is a great way to enhance Personal and Intellectual Growth. Whether it’s learning from each other’s experiences or sharing useful advice, there’s always something we can learn from one another.
OKLAHOMA ALPHA USED ITS CHAPTER LEADERSHIP EDUCATION EXPENDABLE (CLEE) FUND TO ATTEND COLLEGE WEEKEND—WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO THE DONORS WHO MADE THIS EXPERIENCE POSSIBLE?
Kaitlyn: I can’t express enough how grateful I am. Thank you for believing in Pi Beta Phi and in the future leaders of our organization. Being given the opportunity to learn and serve my sisters truly means the world to me.
The world needs more women in leadership roles, and with your support, Pi Phi can encourage and empower the next generation of leaders.
Our leadership training events and personal development programs give our members the skills they need to lead and the confidence to believe in their abilities. Gifts to the Leadership Fund at Pi Beta Phi Foundation invest in signature leadership development opportunities including College Weekend, Pi Beta Phi Leadership Institute, Critical Conversations® and Leading with Values ®.
Your generosity can also give more Pi Phis access to these transformational opportunities by eliminating financial barriers through Chapter Leadership Education Expendable (CLEE) funds, which help chapter officers and individual members cover travel and registration costs. Scan the QR code to learn more and view the list of chapters with CLEE funds.
If your chapter does not yet have a CLEE fund and you are interested in establishing one for your chapter or a chapter close to your heart, contact a member of our Foundation Team at fndn@pibetaphi.org
Points of Interest
PI PHIS MADE AN IMPACT IN LOUISVILLE FOR FRATERNITY DAY OF SERVICE
Every March, Pi Phis celebrate Fraternity Day of Service (FDS) by participating in literacy-related service events in their communities. As part of our commitment to inspiring a lifelong love of reading, Pi Phis and friends distributed 10,000 new books through our FDS Signature Event in Louisville, Kentucky on March 8.
Thousands of new “Stories for All” books—featuring diverse characters, cultures and identities—were given to youth-serving organizations in the local community, ensuring more children have access to stories that reflect the world around them.
Your generosity to The Literacy Fund at Pi Beta Phi Foundation is essential to the success of Pi Beta Phi’s literacy initiatives. Your support fully funds all Read > Lead > Achieve ® programs, including FDS Signature Events— providing children in our communities with the opportunity to read, learn and reach their full potential.
Pi Phis and recipients at the FDS Signature Event in Louisville, Kentucky. From left: Kentucky Alpha NICOLE BRIDGES LANCASTER , Kentucky Gamma MORGAN RILEY SEXTON , three members from Hazelwood Elementary, Tennessee Gamma HEATHER WRIGHT STOHR and Kentucky Alpha CANDACE REYNOLDS DEPP
THANK YOU, CHAPTERS AND ALUMNAE CLUBS
Each year, Pi Phi chapters and alumnae clubs demonstrate their dedication to Philanthropic Service to Others by giving back to Pi Beta Phi Foundation and making a meaningful impact in their communities. Through their generosity, they invest in every Pi Phi sister and every facet of the Pi Phi experience.
Thanks to their dedication, chapters and clubs raised an incredible $859,512.15 for Pi Beta Phi Foundation between January 1 – December 31, 2024! We are deeply grateful for their continued support and are proud to recognize the top 10 chapters and clubs in alphabetical order below:
Top 10 Alumnae Clubs
• Dallas, Texas, Alumnae Club
• Greater Kansas City Alumnae Club
• Lake Oswego-Dunthorpe, Oregon, Alumnae Club
• Nashville, Tennessee, Alumnae Club
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Alumnae Club
• Pasadena, California, Alumnae Club
• Phoenix, Arizona, Alumnae Club
• Richardson-Plano, Texas, Alumnae Club
• South Bay, California, Alumnae Club
• St. Louis, Missouri, Alumnae Club
THANK YOU, DONORS!
Top 10 Chapters
• Alabama Beta
• Delaware Alpha
• Florida Beta
• Florida Epsilon
• Illinois Kappa
• Louisiana Beta
• Mississippi Beta
• Missouri Gamma
• Ontario Beta
• Texas Epsilon
Pi Beta Phi thanks our sisters and friends who have made gifts of $1,000 or more between July 1, 2024, and March 15, 2025. Donors who make annual gifts of $1,000 or more model the way through loyalty, leadership and Lifelong Commitment—and provide pivotal support to Pi Phi each year. View the list at pibetaphi.org/donors
w e’re off to the race s
Join us in Louisville, Kentucky, June 19-21, 2025, for a Celebration of Sisterhood, heritage and Pi Phi Pride! Held each biennium, convention honors our history, celebrates the present and ensures we are prepared for a bright future. Registration is now open, and there are several opportunities to gather in appreciation of your steadfast support of our sisterhood:
Halo Heaven – Monday, May 19
Starting on May 19, Halo Heaven will open, allowing members to send halos to sisters and friends, while helping to support the future of our sisterhood. Halos will be available online at haloheaven.org and in person at convention through June 21.
Foundation Donor Reception – Thursday, June 19
Sisters and friends who support Pi Beta Phi Foundation are invited to a reception to celebrate their support of our sisterhood.
May Lansfield Keller Breakfast – Friday, June 20
Members of the Evelyn Peters Kyle and Marianne Reid Wild Giving Societies are invited to spend the morning together in appreciation of their steadfast support of our sisterhood. scan the code to register for convention
VIRTUAL SCHOLARSHIP RECOGNITION EVENT
On January 30, our Foundation proudly hosted its first Scholarship Donor Virtual Reception. During this special event, donors who established scholarship funds joined a panel discussion featuring seven outstanding 2024-2025 Pi Beta Phi Foundation scholarship and fellowship recipients. Recipients shared how their awards have impacted their education, finances and families—powerful stories that highlight the remarkable Pi Phi women supported by our generous donors.
Scan the QR code to watch the recap video and hear firsthand from these inspiring recipients as they express their heartfelt gratitude.
AMG LIFE RESOURCE
Our investment partner, AMG National Trust, has created a collection of insightful reports tailored to various life events. As an exclusive digital resource for our donors, these reports provide valuable guidance—whether you’re launching your career, getting married or planning for retirement.
“Getting Married and Managing Wealth” provides expert insights on financial planning and estate management for couples at various stages in their lives. Scan the QR code to read the article.
IMPORTANT PHILANTHROPIC GIVING SURVEY COMING
Pi Phi will be participating in the 2025 Foundation for Fraternal Excellence (FFE) Survey conducted by Cygnus. Based on previous iterations of the survey conducted in 2011, 2015 and 2020, the research will generate an invaluable set of industry-wide data to establish national performance benchmarks for fundraising. The information gathered will lead to a series of strategic recommendations that all fraternities and sororities can use to strengthen their fundraising activities, enhance member engagement and generate greater support for their programs and services. Invitations to participate will be sent by Cygnus, via email, on May 29. We encourage you to participate in this survey!
Board of Trustees
President Wendy Labreche Pratt, Massachusetts Beta
Town & Country Commons Drive
1154
Town & Country, Missouri 63017
Secretary
Kim Barger Durand, Oregon Alpha
Vice President Development
Kathleen Meriano, New York Eta
Vice President Finance
Donna Butterworth, Virginia Eta
Trustees
Michael Bettin, Utah Alpha
Connell Sullivan Branan, California Gamma
Heafitz, Illinois Zeta
Alison Veit
Leslie Magnus, New Jersey Alpha
Cindy Rice Svec, Kansas Beta
Ex-Officio
Ana Mancebo Miller, Texas Beta
Alisa Brooks Rudlang, Minnesota Alpha
The Bow is available to download in a fully accessible digital format, compatible with screen readers, to ensure everyone can enjoy our content.
Download The Bow at pibetaphi.org/bow .
See Foundation staff at pibetaphi.org/staff
You can ensure an even brighter future for our sisterhood. Your gifts to the Friendship Fund help Pi Phi prepare members to lead, award scholarships, fund our literacy work, care for our sisters—and so much more. Make a gift today at pibetaphi.org/bowgiving or scan the QR code.
