Continuing The Positivity

As a collegian who had an invaluable experience in Pi Phi and an alumna with hopes to give back, ELLEN SARIDAKIS PHILLIPPI is passionate about staying involved with our sisterhood. Read more about her Pi Phi story and what inspires her as a volunteer.

WHAT DREW YOU TO PI PHI DURING RECRUITMENT?

The women I met were genuine and I felt they truly had an interest in what I was saying. Our conversations were meaningful, and Pi Phi felt like home.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PI PHI MEMORY?

I had the honor of serving as Chapter President at Ohio Beta and my all-time favorite memory was getting to initiate new members into Pi Phi. Our initiation ceremony always holds a special place in my heart.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT ALUMNAE LIFE?

I love serving as an Alumnae Advisory Committee (AAC) Advisor. While living in Athens, Ohio during medical school, I had the opportunity to connect with the Ohio Alpha Chapter and serve on their AAC. After moving to Pittsburgh, I got involved with the Pennsylvania Zeta Chapter where I currently serve as the Member Experience Advisor. I love mentoring collegiate women and watching their leadership skills develop. You are never too old to stop learning and being a part of AAC continues to teach me new skills.

WHAT MADE YOU INITIALLY WANT TO VOLUNTEER FOR PI PHI? WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO KEEP VOLUNTEERING?

I had great mentors while I was a collegian and chapter leader at Ohio Beta. I’ve truly enjoyed mentoring collegiate women and helping them reach new heights. It’s also been fun working with chapters outside of my own as I feel I can bring an outside perspective and new ideas to the table.

I had a wonderful experience with Pi Phi throughout my collegiate years and this has inspired me to continue volunteering. I have a desire to give back to the organization that gave me so much.

HOW HAVE YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLES IN PI PHI SHAPED YOU?

Taking on leadership roles has helped tremendously in my career and personal life. I have had the pleasure of working with a diverse group of women, and I’ve learned to work efficiently but also thoughtfully. Many of the Pi Phi leadership roles intersect with one another and this has helped grow my ability to collaborate with others and delegate tasks appropriately to move the organization forward.

HOW HAS PI PHI MADE AN IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE?

Pi Phi has brought me the most Sincere Friendships that continue to grow. I am still in close touch with several of my sisters and growing up with these women has been such a joy. They have helped me through tough times and been there for my most joyful moments.

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

I appreciate the volunteers that have come before me, and I want to continue their positive work. I hope my work as a Pi Phi volunteer inspires others.