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-at-home 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 10th 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.