You Always Have a Place in Pi Phi

As a collegian, REBECCA DOLL FAIRCHILD found a true sense of community within Pi Phi. Now, as a member of Kansas Beta’s AAC, she hopes to provide the same support and meaningful experiences to the next generation of sisters.

WHAT DREW YOU TO PI PHI DURING RECRUITMENT?

When I went through formal recruitment, I was really impressed by how down-to-earth and well-rounded everyone was. Pi Phi brought me some amazing women who pushed me to be better while always having my back.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PI PHI MEMORY?

When I was a collegian, I had the amazing opportunity to attend the Pi Beta Phi Convention in Washington, D.C. It was such a blast meeting members from all over! I loved experiencing the traditions from each chapter, but the absolute highlight was getting to accept the Balfour Cup for Kansas Beta!

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO VOLUNTEER FOR PI PHI?

Last November, I was getting my nails done for my wedding and happened to run into the Chapter House Corporation President from my time in the chapter house. I told her I had just moved back to Manhattan, Kansas, and was excited to get involved in the chapter. Growing up in Western Kansas, I didn’t know many people at Kansas State University, but fraternity/sorority life helped me make so many awesome friends and gave me opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise. I wanted to volunteer to help other women find those same opportunities, so running into my old mentor felt like fate!

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF SERVING ON AAC? WHAT ABOUT THE BIGGEST LEARNING CURVE?

My senior year of college was a bit unconventional due to the COVID-19 pandemic—virtual chapter meetings and fewer social events made it different from my previous years in the house. I was worried some chapter traditions might have been lost, but as a member of AAC, I’ve had the chance to visit chapters and am thrilled to see those traditions still alive.

HOW HAS PI PHI MADE AN IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE?

Pi Phi gave me a sense of community. Additionally, since I studied engineering there were not many women in my major, so Pi Phi is where I found many friendships. At the end of the day, I always knew I had a place at Pi Phi.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT OUR SISTERHOOD?

The diversity of perspectives we have. Everyone brings something unique to the table which helps us think outside the box. Plus, that diversity creates such a strong sense of belonging. It feels great to be part of a sisterhood where everyone is valued, and we can learn from each other while having fun together!

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

Volunteering for our sisterhood means so much to me because I want to help other women have the same amazing opportunities I had. Pi Phi really enhanced my college experience, both academically and socially, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible chapter volunteers. It’s all about empowering the next generation of sisters and making sure they feel supported. I love being part of a community that makes a positive difference through its meaningful work!