Remember Where You Came From

As a new member of Indiana Epsilon’s Alumnae Advisory Committee (AAC) as the Finance/Housing Advisor, EMMA VEON has already found fulfillment, purpose and connection in her volunteer life. Read more about her Pi Phi story and what inspires her to stay involved.

WHAT DREW YOU TO PI PHI DURING RECRUITMENT?

I felt the connections I had made were very genuine—the women that made up the chapter were unique, fun-loving and driven.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PI PHI MEMORY?

Having a sleepover the night before initiation with some of my member class sisters, they are still friends of mine to this day!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT ALUMNAE LIFE SO FAR?

Seeing the beautiful lives all my sisters have created for themselves since graduation, both professionally and personally.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO VOLUNTEER FOR PI PHI?

One of my closest friends began volunteering for our chapter’s AAC during the previous year and spoke very highly about her experience reconnecting with alumnae as well as the collegiate members.

HOW HAVE YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLES SHAPED YOU?

The two leadership positions I have held with Pi Phi between my time as a collegian and as an alumna have been great learning and development experiences for me, especially in the areas of communication, organization, planning and asking for help when needed without being embarrassed. It’s very empowering to accomplish unfamiliar tasks and work towards a common goal with kind and energized people.

WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PART ABOUT SERVING PI PHI?

The most challenging part is the majority of our AAC is remote, so we are not able to connect in person as often as we would like, but it is so rewarding to have perspective from many different women in different stages of life!

HOW HAS PI PHI MADE AN IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE?

Pi Phi has brought me some of the strongest friendships I have ever had and has taught me about personal responsibility, leadership, advocacy and community.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT OUR SISTERHOOD?

I love how diverse and strong-minded Pi Phi women are, and that there is always someone willing to lend a hand if called upon.

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

It’s an excellent opportunity to reconnect to the values that were instilled in us as collegiate members. Life can be so hectic as an adult that it’s easy to not make the time to give back, but volunteering with Pi Phi has given me that opportunity. It’s also allowed me to foster community and mentorship with the collegiate women in my chapter. It’s important to always remember where you come from and how you got where you are now.