A Lifelong Possibility

From her collegiate to alumnae years, ELAINE PELLMANN REEDY has felt support from Pi Phi in many facets of her life. Now, as Washington Gamma’s Alumnae Advisory Committee (AAC) Finance/Housing Advisor, she hopes to pay it forward.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT ALUMNAE LIFE?

The friendship and support from the different alumnae groups I have been involved in. The women who choose to volunteer and stay involved offer true help and support.

WHAT MADE YOU INITIALLY WANT TO VOLUNTEER FOR PI PHI? WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO STAY INVOLVED?

I wanted to get involved and meet new people when I moved to a new place— Pi Phi made it easy to find others with similar values and interests.

HOW HAVE YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLES AS AN ALUMNA SHAPED YOU?

As the president of an alumnae club for many years, and now serving on AAC for Washington Gamma, I have been on two sides of service. It has been an excellent experience in building relationships and organization that I have been able to use in both my professional and personal life.

WHAT ARE THE MOST CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PARTS ABOUT SERVING PI PHI?

Finding time in a busy adult life is the hardest, but when an event or project comes together and you see others benefiting from it, it is the best reward!

HOW HAS PI PHI MADE AN IMPACT ON YOUR LIFE?

In probably more ways than I can articulate, but it is all positive. The support you can get for anything you need is amazing; you just have to ask. Also, meeting other women who have dedicated their adult lives to serving Pi Phi makes me feel I can always give more of my time.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT OUR SISTERHOOD?

The women—all types and personalities who work together to help Pi Phi continue to grow. I also love the acceptance of being yourself.

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

It's important to support the organization for all its wonderful philanthropic pursuits and the positive influence on younger generations. As alumnae, we can show them it's a lifelong opportunity to be active with an organization you feel proud to be a member of and feel like you are making a difference.