[jenidallas]

My bid day was still one of my favorite days in my sorority. At 4 pm, we ran outside but before I ran to meet my sisters in Gamma Phi Beta, my mom was waiting. She was holding a giant stuffed animal ( the mascot of Bears) but tied around its neck were Gamma Phi Beta printed ribbons. She said she had purchased the animal when she first thought I’d possibly pledge my legacy but modified her plan when she realized I’d end up where I belonged.

I love my mom for her Panhellenic spirit and I’m so excited that she’ll celebrate 50 years in her sorority this coming spring. When I bought my Gamma Phi Beta badge, I tried to mirror the style of my mom’s own badge as closely as possible. We’ve attended MANY mother/daughter events over the years in our “matching” badge. And that stuffed animal still sits in a chair in the dressing area of my bedroom.

My mom inspired me to continued service to my sorority. I’ve held a lot of alumnae chapter officer roles, served on three advisory boards (more on that in a moment), and I’m currently in a regional leadership role. I have told my recruitment/affiliation story many times since so it’s nice to finally share it here.

Ah, but it’s not QUITE over yet….