Community and Connection

As a chapter leader who valued the support of her own advisors during her collegiate years, STEPHANIE CALDERON VANCE felt called to help guide the next generation of Pi Phi leaders. Read more about her story and her experience as Illinois Alpha’s Alumnae Advisory Committee (AAC) Recruitment Advisor.

WHAT DREW YOU TO PI PHI DURING RECRUITMENT?

Of all my conversations throughout recruitment, it was with Pi Phis whom I felt most comfortable with. I had something in common with every woman I met and there was simply an ease. Conversations didn’t feel forced, and I knew I’d be able to be myself and be accepted.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PI PHI MEMORY?

It’s hard to limit it to one! I love looking back at big moments, like leading the chapter’s recruitment or big/little reveals, but I also treasure the “in between” memories, like getting ready for a night out at the house, studying in the library or grabbing a late-night snack. My collegiate years at Florida State University and with Pi Phi are always a highlight.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT ALUMNAE LIFE?

I love finding Pi Phis in the wild. Since I joined Kraft Heinz Company for my career, I have had two managers who have also been Pi Phis. But it feels like every week I realize another coworker was a Pi Phi, too! It’s always fun to see how many of us are out there—most times we don’t even realize it!

WHAT MADE YOU INITIALLY WANT TO VOLUNTEER FOR PI PHI?

Having led Florida Beta’s recruitment, I felt I had a lot of knowledge and learnings I wanted to share with others who would newly be going through it.

HOW HAS PI PHI MADE AN IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE?

It’s provided community and connection throughout more phases of life beyond college than I ever realized it would. It was a connector for meeting new people in a new city when I moved to Chicago, resulting in meeting my husband, networking for jobs and more.

AS A PI PHI VOLUNTEER YOURSELF, WHY DO YOU THINK VOLUNTEERING FOR OUR SISTERHOOD IS SO IMPORTANT?

It’s a small way to give back. I valued the guidance and support my AAC Advisors and Leadership Development Consultants provided me back then.

It was a lot to learn and navigate, so I’m happy to be able to guide and coach the Executive Council as they face a similar learning curve.

Supporting our sisterhood can look different for every member. Whether you’re paying your alumnae dues, serving in a volunteer role or giving to Pi Beta Phi Foundation— you make a difference for Pi Phi. If you’re interested in volunteering, explore opportunities at pibetaphi.org/volunteer