Today marks a special milestone for me—35 years since I was initiated into the Alpha Delta Pi sorority. This organization has been a constant thread through my personal and professional journey, shaping me in ways I never could have anticipated as a college freshman. From my time as a collegiate member to my nearly 15 years as a chapter advisor at Troy University, Alpha Delta Pi has taught me invaluable lessons about sisterhood, service, character, and knowledge.
At its heart, Alpha Delta Pi is a sisterhood dedicated to lifelong personal growth and friendship. These values are deeply embedded in every aspect of the sorority, from the diamond badge that symbolizes our guiding principles to the philanthropic and leadership opportunities that encourage us to make an impact far beyond our college years. As I reflect on the past 35 years, I am reminded of how vital it is for women to uplift one another and create spaces where we can thrive together.
The Power of Sisterhood
One of the greatest gifts Alpha Delta Pi has given me is the understanding of true sisterhood. Being surrounded by women with shared values but diverse experiences showed me the strength in unity and the beauty of mutual support. Together, we navigated challenges, celebrated victories, and grew into women ready to make a difference in the world.
This sense of belonging didn’t end with graduation. As an alumna and chapter advisor, I had the privilege of guiding young women through their own journeys, helping them develop their character, leadership skills, and confidence. These relationships reminded me time and again that when women build each other up, we all rise.
Another of the greatest gifts Alpha Delta Pi has given me is the unwavering support of my sisters, both those I shared my collegiate years with and those I’ve met along life’s journey. Whether it’s celebrating milestones, navigating challenges, or simply offering a listening ear, the bond we share has remained constant. These women have been by my side in moments of joy and sorrow, offering encouragement and strength when I needed it most. It’s a comfort to know that, no matter where life takes me, I can always count on my ADPi sisters to lift me up and remind me of the values we hold dear. This sisterhood isn’t just a chapter of my past—it’s a lifelong source of connection, loyalty, and belonging.
Building a Legacy Through Service
The value of service has always been central to Alpha Delta Pi. Whether it was through philanthropic efforts or simple acts of kindness, giving back was a cornerstone of my sorority experience. Serving as a chapter advisor allowed me to live out this value on a deeper level. I became a mentor, a resource, and, often, a listening ear for the women in my chapter.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey with Alpha Delta Pi has been watching the collegiate women I’ve mentored grow into strong, successful women who are making meaningful impacts in their own communities and industries. It has been a true joy to see them embrace their potential, pursue their dreams, and lead with the same integrity and character that Alpha Delta Pi instills in all of us. Whether they’re excelling in their careers, giving back through service, or building supportive networks of their own, these women are living proof of the enduring power of our sisterhood and the values we share. Being a small part of their journey has been an honor I’ll cherish forever.
In many ways, this role prepared me for the work I do today. Coaching and mentoring collegiate women to set goals, overcome obstacles, and celebrate their strengths laid the foundation for the business I’m building now. My focus on culture, leadership, and professional branding is deeply rooted in the same principles I lived and taught as an advisor.
Lessons in Leadership and Culture
As an advisor, I saw firsthand how important it is to foster a positive culture. Whether it was encouraging teams to think strategically, helping officers step into leadership roles, or ensuring consistent communication, I learned that strong organizations are built on trust, empowerment, and shared vision.
These experiences shaped my approach to leadership today. I often draw on the lessons from Alpha Delta Pi when working with organizations to build cultures where both employees and companies thrive. The Four Points of the Diamond—Sisterhood, Service, Character, and Knowledge—remain guiding principles in my work, reminding me that success is never a solo endeavor.
Full Circle
Looking back, I see how my involvement in Alpha Delta Pi has shaped not just who I am but also the work I do. The relationships I formed, the lessons I learned, and the values I embraced continue to influence me every day.
Alpha Delta Pi’s mission to empower women to reach their full potential resonates deeply with my own mission: to help individuals and organizations uncover their unique strengths and create cultures where everyone can succeed.
As I celebrate 35 years of sisterhood, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences, friendships, and opportunities that Alpha Delta Pi has brought into my life. To my sisters—past, present, and future—thank you for being part of this journey. May we continue to build each other up, serve our communities, and lead with integrity, together.
