5 minute read
Empowering the Leaders of Today and Tomorrow
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.
College Weekend—a three day 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.
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?
Kaitlyn: 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.
WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM YOUR PROGRAMMING?
Loren: 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.
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.
