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Carolina is a first-generation Cuban-American, born and raised in Miami, FL. She became a member of Delta Phi Epsilon at Florida International University (Alpha Gamma), where she studied Psychology and Education. Upon graduating, she began volunteering for DPhiE and has since served on our National Panhellenic Conference Delegation, Event and Conferences Planning Committee, Ritual Review Committee, Programming Review Committee, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee among several others. In addition to serving her first term on the International Governing Board, she is a proud long-term Chapter Advisory Board member at the University of Miami (Omega Chapter).

Initially, Carolina dreamt of being a Speech Pathologist but realized she had more impact in a classroom than in a therapy session. She began her career in education as an ESE (Exceptional Student Education) Teacher at an early intervention school for children with Autism at NOVA Southeastern University and still remains in contact with the families she has worked with over the years. After stepping out of the classroom, she began consulting with early childhood programs and teachers around the state, as well as in Georgia for the UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute and The Autism Consortium at NSU. She is now a team lead at the Early Learning Coalition of Miami Dade & Monroe and coordinates assessments and support for high-risk, federally funded programs in South Florida.

Earlier this year, Carolina purchased her first home and is now forever decorating and rearranging furniture. She enjoys the company of her 17-year-old min-pin Rocco, collecting vintage (clothes, décor, books), Marlins baseball, traveling, advocating, rescuing animals, and attending ILF (she hasn’t missed one since she’s been initiated).

Why do you volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon?

DPhiE has helped me grow as an individual and my sisters have supported me through the good and not-so-good moments in my lifetime. My intention is to ensure that this wonderful, empowering support system is accessible for years to come. Since graduating 17 years ago, the sisters I have met as a volunteer and as an alum continue to fill my cup and show me what it means to be a sister and a DPhiE; they inspire me to continue to give back, and fight for change.

What do you hope to accomplish while serving on the International Governing Board? Or what do you bring to the table? 

I am a very vocal, passionate person, and I hope to acknowledge and provide a platform for all those that do not feel heard. I believe we all have something to learn from each other and no one sister is more important than another.  I have worked in education my entire career, as well as served as an advisor and consultant for over 10 years; I believe my background will help me effectively play “devil’s advocate” in order to ensure best practices are implemented.

Favorite Delta Phi Epsilon memory?

Chapter Thursdays, lining up in scroll order, in our chapter jerseys, and spilling into the room and having the opportunity to catch up with everyone before and after our weekly meeting. Founders Day Camping trips where anything and everything could happen. Never missing a Convention (now known as ILF) and getting to meet and mingle with incredibly like-minded sisters from around the country who are now some of my most treasured friends. 

How has Delta Phi Epsilon impacted your life?

I am a first-generation Cuban- American, this sisterhood has helped me navigate college, careers, relationships, and loss. The support, guidance, and brutal honesty of my sisters have helped me grow, succeed, and heal. This sisterhood has provided me with a family, especially after the loss of mine. I am forever inspired by the strength and empathy of our members.

If you could tell an undergraduate sister one thing, what would it be?

I hope you never lose the excitement of reuniting with sisters or meeting a new sister. I hope you realize that this is something that extends far beyond your family tree/mc and your chapter. I hope you take this privileged opportunity to grow and lift those around you. I hope you get the opportunity to experience the many levels of sisterhood in DPhiE despite any temporary obstacles you may have to learn from. We know you are the future of this organization and we believe in you.

This blog series is to highlight the members of the International Governing Board who transitioned into their roles at the 2022  International Leadership Forum. The International Governing Board focuses on the overall governance of the sorority and strategic planning for each biennium. These positions are elected every two years.

Laura Glotzbach, a member from Delta Sigma chapter at Rider University, has 24 years of marketing experience with a focus on direct response advertising and campaign analytics. She spent 10 years working in several of the top New York advertising agencies (Wunderman, MEC Interaction and Neo@Ogilvy) before branching out and starting her own marketing analytics firm 12 years ago. While working in the various advertising agencies, she honed her skills for client service, strategic marketing and analysis across a variety of media channels. Laura’s work was recognized when she received the 2004 Rising Star Award from Media Post Magazine for developing the concept and working to establish an automated system that links various data sources together to enable direct response optimizations to occur seamlessly.

Laura graduated from Rider University with a Business degree in Advertising. She is also Certified in Training as a Consultant from New York University. She has completed the Business Analytics: From Data to Insights certificate program from The Wharton School and the Women in Leadership certificate program from Cornell. She is on the Executive Board of the Gail Biernbaum Women’s Leadership Council at Rider University, an Executive in Residence for the Norm Brodsky College of Business at Rider University and Co-chair of the Rider Business Analytics Advisory Council. She currently serves as a board member on the International Governing Board. She is currently attending Penn State for a Master of Professional Studies, Psychology of Leadership.

Why do you volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon?

Joining Delta Phi Epsilon while I was at Rider University shaped me into the person I am today. My experiences allowed me to develop my leadership skills, learn the importance of philanthropy and create lifelong friendships that stand the test of time and distance. I volunteer to give back to the sorority that has given so much to me.
     

What do you hope to accomplish while serving on the International Governing Board? Or what do you bring to the table?

To be allowed to have a seat at the table and be a part of shaping the future of Delta Phi Epsilon is an honor that I cherish and a responsibility that I take seriously. As a member of the Kindness Committee, I am working alongside the other committee members to define what kindness means to the organization and to create a foundation of kindness that will be infused in everything that the sorority does. I have a data-driven, strategic mindset and a passion for helping women develop their leadership skills. I look forward to working with the IHQ team anyway I can in order to develop leadership content and experiences to help our members develop their leadership skillset.

Favorite Delta Phi Epsilon memory?

There is not one memory but rather a collection of memories that all center around the idea of belonging. Whether working together during Rush, celebrating someone’s birthday, helping someone through a difficult time, or simply having fun on a Saturday night, I knew I was part of something special because of the love and kindness I felt from my sisters.

How has Delta Phi Epsilon impacted your life?

Joining Delta Phi Epsilon and being an active member has positively impacted my life. I learned about myself and how to be a leader when the chapter trusted me to be their President. I understand how important it is to be a mentor because of being a big sister. I know how important community service is from the various volunteer experiences we did together. I learned how to forgive, have difficult conversations and how to prioritize school, work, the sorority, and other activities. I often say being President was like running a small business. I am so thankful for the leadership opportunities and friendships I have and continue to make.

If you could tell an undergraduate sister one thing, what would it be?

Cherish the time that you have and do what makes your soul happy.

I mention this because when I get together with other sisters, we often reminisce about our times together at Delta Phi Epsilon. We often say that we would love to go back and experience it again because it was such a special time.

As an advocate for women’s leadership, I must add one more piece of advice. Leading a group toward a common goal is a life skill and one that takes practice. What better way to get that experience and do it with people you know and trust. Please take advantage of the leadership experiences that are available if this is something you are remotely interested in learning about.

Interested in learning more about the International Governing Board? Want to have your voice heard about a certain DPhiE related topic? Click here to register for the next “Fireside Chats with Lisa Condon, International President” on Thursday, September 29th from 12 pm EST to 2 pm EST.

Hilary Horlock, a sister from the Zeta chapter at the University of Toronto, is constantly looking for ways to make things better. A Senior Enterprise Architect, she specializes in healthcare technology design from an end user perspective.

Passionate about improving the patient experience, this passion gained extra fuel and insight when she learned she had cancer in June of 2015. For her work to improve the breast cancer patient experience, Hilary was awarded the Health Employers Association of BC (HEABC) 2017 Health Care Hero award. In addition to being a voice for change in the patient journey, she worked with patients and oncology professionals to publish the Patient-friendly Guide to Pathology Reports.

Hilary’s career has been a serendipitous adventure through journalism, communications and marketing, technology entrepreneurship, and project management. She is a Certified Usability Analyst (CUA), Project Management Professional (PMP), TOGAF-certified Enterprise Architect, PROSCI-certified Change Management professional and Scrum Certified Product Owner. Hilary is a patient representative on multiple provincial and national committees, including Canada’s national Health Standards Organization Technology-Enabled Health Committee.

Endlessly curious, Hilary loves to learn, laugh, Stand Up Paddle, play on a beach, travel far and wide, and eat chocolate – not necessarily in that order.

Why do you volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon?

It’s one of the ways I can give back to a community that means a great deal to me. I became a Deepher as an alumnae initiate after my academic years because DPhiE’s philosophies and commitment to helping shape the leaders of tomorrow resonated with my own values. Volunteering helps me make wonderful connections with other sisters, which I treasure. Volunteering is also a remarkable knowledge exchange. In addition to being able to contribute to IGB committees via the lessons and insights I’ve gathered throughout my career, I’m always learning from my fellow volunteers thanks to their generosity of spirit and their own experiences.

What do you hope to accomplish while serving on the International Governing Board? Or what do you bring to the table?

IGB is tasked with helping make the decisions that are in the best interest of the organization, setting it up for ongoing success. One of the decisions the Board made as a priority was for DPhiE to become a global leader in kindness and empathy. Via the work the Kindness Committee has been doing for the past two years, kindness programs and activities have been created, with the intention that they are part of an ongoing operational mandate. A huge shout out to Laura Glotzbach, Misha Brahmbhatt and Lesley Sutton for their dedication and countless hours in building these programs. Some of the kindness themes have become a part of DPhiE activities already, but most are launching at ILF.

Favorite Delta Phi Epsilon memory?

My very first ILF in Philadelphia. The energy, t-shirt auction, meeting the Phillies mascot and the keynote by Lorenza Ponce (I still wear my Sisters Rock shirt!). It was a fabulous introduction to all things DPhiE.

How has Delta Phi Epsilon impacted your life?

I’ve made fabulous new friends and had the opportunity to give back in ways I never imagined. It’s also very special to be part of an organization that is such a strong voice for freedom of choice, inclusivity, respect and kindness.

If you could tell an undergraduate sister one thing, what would it be?

Look for ways to build trust. Trust is the foundation on which so much rests – our perspectives, our choices, our future – and we need to build more of it.

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This blog series is to highlight the members of the 2022 International Governing Board who transitioned into their roles at this year’s International Leadership Forum. The International Governing Board focuses on the overall governance of the sorority and strategic planning for each biennium. These positions are elected every two years.

The IGB is composed of dedicated volunteers; do you want to make a difference like Hilary? Click here to learn more about volunteering for Delta Phi Epsilon.

Heather Locke Green is an alumna member of the Beta Chi chapter at St. Norbert College. She has worked in higher education for more than 24 years. She is currently the Director, Annual Giving at The University of Texas at San Antonio when she spearheads efforts to help alumni and friends support the university. A long time Delta Phi Epsilon volunteer, Heather previously served as the president of the Educational Foundation as well as vice president for membership for the sorority. Heather currently serves as the international ritualist. Some of her greatest joys include traveling with her husband Ron and being “magga” to grandsons Bellamy and Emmette (who is adored by DPhiE’s everywhere for his OOTD posts.)

Why do you volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon?

I started volunteering because I wanted to represent smaller chapters (shout out Beta Chi!) and stay involved with college students. I continue volunteering because the friendships I’ve made have enriched my life and I continue to gain new knowledge and insights that I use for personal and professional growth.

What do you hope to accomplish while serving on the International Governing Board? Or what do you bring to the table?

I bring to the table a background in fundraising, nonprofit management, strategic planning and communications. I’ve worked in higher education for 24 years, and have a master’s in higher education administration—so I have a familiarity with how things work on campuses. I’ve also developed deep connections to sisters from across the continent during my time as a volunteer and chapter advisor.

Favorite Delta Phi Epsilon memory?

Helping initiate my grandmother into the sorority. She was tenacious in bringing services for people with disabilities to rural Wisconsin communities, and the most accepting person I’ve ever met—the embodiment of Esse Quam Videri. Those are the kinds of qualities that made her the ideal candidate for alumnae initiation, and it was a moment I will forever treasure. She passed in 2019, and I now wear her badge.

My second fave memory was interviewing fellow sister Judy Heumann for the Social Justice Series last year. Like my grandmother, she’s spent her life fighting for the rights of people with disabilities. I am so proud she is a DPhiE.

How has Delta Phi Epsilon impacted your life?

WOW…. DPhiE has impacted my life in so many ways. I am a stronger woman because of DPhiE. I’ve learned so much about managing organizations and building relationships that I use in my professional life every day. The friendships I have made—with women from other chapters—are most special to me. I know if I needed anything, they would be there for me.

If you could tell an undergraduate sister one thing, what would it be?

Travel, study abroad, expand your worldview. And in terms of DPhiE, I’ll tell you that you absolutely will get out of it, what you put into it. I’ve been able to make being in DPhiE and the relationships I’ve made something that has impacted me long after graduation—you can, too, if you choose.

This blog series is to highlight the members of the 2022 International Governing Board who transitioned into their roles at this year’s International Leadership Forum. The International Governing Board focuses on the overall governance of the sorority and strategic planning for each biennium. These positions are elected every two years.

Ana Morales joined the Alpha Gamma chapter at Florida International University as a senior in Summer 2000. Having only been an active sister for a year, Ana began to volunteer with Delta Phi Epsilon within a year of graduating. In December 2001, she was placed as an advisor for the Omega chapter at University of Miami and has held that position ever since. Ana has also held various other volunteer positions within the organization, such as serving on the Chapter Management Team and Treasurer for the National Development Corporation (NDC).

Ana was raised in Miami, FL and earned a Master’s degree in Accounting from Nova Southeastern University. She  is a Certified Public Accountant with her own small firm and also works as Development Associate under the Senior Vice President of the Southeast Division for AIMCO, a real estate investment company. Ana loves to travel (especially to Disney World!), is an avid sports fan, and loves to spend time with her family and sisters.

Ana transitioned into the role of First Vice President of the International Governing Board at this year’s International Leadership Forum. She is the first hispanic member to hold this position in Delta Phi Epsilon history.

Why do you volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon?  

After delaying going through recruitment in my first 3 years of college, I became a sister of Delta Phi Epsilon during my senior year, and being a sister for only one year wasn’t enough for me. I decided then that I would immediately volunteer after graduation. Being a volunteer allows me to continue giving back to the organization that I am so happy to be in. Being exposed to a wide spectrum of members from the new sisters to the seasoned volunteers that have seen our organization evolve gives me so much joy and makes me so proud to see women who have gone through their collegiate experience turn around and say “I want to volunteer” is a sign that giving back and connecting to the sisterhood is definitely something I want to continue.

What do you hope to accomplish while serving on the International Governing Board? Or what do you bring to the table? 

In my time serving on IGB, I hope to be able to provide support for the goals of the organization. I hope to be able to introduce ideas that will benefit our continued growth and success. I hope to be a voice for all members and I look forward to having the difficult conversations and the challenges that will help our sisterhood become stronger and that will continue to move our organization forward.

Favorite Delta Phi Epsilon memory? 

I do not have one absolute favorite memory. I have a plethora of them. From my short time in my collegiate experience to so many memories as an alumni. Witnessing my sisters accomplish major milestones, get married, have children, getting to see it all is my favorite thing. I am so proud to be able to call so many amazing women my sisters.

How has Delta Phi Epsilon impacted your life? 

Delta Phi Epsilon has helped me become a well rounded individual and has shown me that you always have support in your sisters. Be it from your own chapter sisters, another local chapter or even the sisters spread out all over the world. Our sisters are always willing to help, and have resulted in some of the best friendships I have developed in my life. I’m constantly learning from them and I’m constantly being challenged to become a better woman.

If you could tell an undergraduate sister one thing, what would it be? 

We always hear you get out of it what you put in, and is absolutely true. Some of the most valuable relationships – be it personal or professional – will come out of your sisterhood. Make all the memories you can and grow alongside this amazing organization.

This blog series is to highlight the members of the 2022 International Governing Board who transitioned into their roles at this year’s International Leadership Forum. The International Governing Board focuses on the overall governance of the sorority and strategic planning for each biennium. These positions are elected every two years.

Roxanne Donovan, a sister from the Gamma chapter at Syracuse University, will be ending her term as international president and transitioning into a general member position during this year’s International Leadership Forum.

She is President of Great Ink, one of the country’s leading real estate-focused public relations firms, a business she founded in 1992. (www.greatink.com) Her firm represents the full spectrum of the industry-commercial, residential, finance, legal, construction, design, advisory, information services, and trade organizations in New York and nationally.

She is a member of many professional organizations, including ULI, WX and the National Association of Real Estate Editors. Also active philanthropist, Roxanne founded Uniting Against Lung Cancer, which today is the Lung Cancer Research Foundation, funding innovative research to conquer the world’s #1 cancer killer. She is also a Trustee of PEN American Center (www.pen.org), the nation’s oldest human rights organization, protecting writers’ freedom of expression in the US around the world and promoting international literary fellowship.

Roxanne is married to Tom Scarangello, Executive Chairman of Thornton Tomasetti, a leading structuring engineering firm with 36 offices worldwide. She has two sons, Elliot and Anthony. She resides in New York.

Why do you volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon?

I volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon because I want to make a contribution to help protect and promote the organization, to make sure other members and new generations have the opportunities and experiences that remain so valuable to me – even 40 years after joining.

What do you hope to accomplish while serving on the International Governing Board? Or what do you bring to the table?

Board members are valued for three main traits: work (their dedicated time and energy), wisdom (expertise) and wealth (ability to provide financial support and/or activate others to contribute). I like to think that I bring all three to the table. I have served on numerous committees over the years, and offer the expertise of someone with extensive board, development, business, public relations and marketing experience. I am also a proud donor, and I’m not afraid to activate my network to contribute to our Ed Foundation. I hope, for this next biennium, to contribute to all three areas in support of the direction Lisa Condon helps take our Board and organization for the future.

Favorite Delta Phi Epsilon memory?

All the afternoons, evenings and early mornings spent on the front porch/steps of our chapter house at Syracuse University blend together for me, and I am happy every time I think about how good it felt to be there, to belong, to be with my sisters.

How has Delta Phi Epsilon impacted your life?

DPhiE has added an immeasurable richness to my life, starting with my collegiate experience and continuing through to the opportunities it has given me for leadership as a volunteer. Many of my closest friends today are sisters from my time at Syracuse University, and also from other chapters across North America met through my time as a volunteer. As a legacy, DPhiE is especially meaningful to me as a tie to my mom, Toby Tamarkin, who is a Deepher from Sigma Chapter at The Ohio State University.

If you could tell an undergraduate sister one thing, what would it be?

Take advantage of everything DPhiE has to offer – including the experiences, scholarships, programs and opportunities that are generated outside of your own chapter house. Think about how you might stay connected to your sisters and the larger universe of Deephers after graduation and stay in touch! We need your energy, heart, vision, work and ideas!

Roxanne and the rest of the incoming IGB will transition into their positions at this year’s ILF on July 21 through July 24, 2022 at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Want to get in on the ILF fun? There’s still time! Register now for the Unicorn Stampede by clicking here.

This blog series is to highlight the members of the 2022 International Governing Board who will transition into their roles at this year’s International Leadership Forum. The International Governing Board focuses on the overall governance of the sorority and strategic planning for each biennium. These positions are elected every two years.

Did you know that a group of unicorns is called a blessing? Daniella Diaz knows that a blessing can brighten your day through friendship and exercise.

Hello! My name is Daniella Diaz. I am a sister of the Alpha Pi Chapter at Southern Connecticut State University, inducted in Fall 2008. While an active sister, I was Secretary for a semester and held two positions on L-Team, Vice President Recruitment and Vice President Membership Development. I graduated in December 2011 and remained an active Alumna, joining the Connecticut Alumnae Association upon graduating. I attended my first ILF as an alumna for our Centennial celebration in Philadelphia, in 2016 and my second ILF in Buffalo, in 2018. I have run/walked our unicorn stampede at both events! Outside of Sorority, I am an Application Consultant who lives in Connecticut with my husband, Brad, our dogs, Luca and Brody, and our cat, Leo. We are also expecting our first child in September!

Why did you want to be on the Unicorn Stampede team?

I began running in 2012 with a group of sisters to prepare for the Walt Disney World Princess Half Marathon. The trip was such a blast and our running journey formed some really solid friendships. It wasn’t just about the run, it was about the journey we all partook on to complete the run. Most of us had never really run before. For some of us, this even began a tradition of RunDisney events together!

I believe the journey to the Unicorn Stampede is similar. Many sisters will spend weeks, even months, training to prepare for the race and in the process build really solid relationships. Running/walking has taken some of us on such a great journey and I want to encourage other sisters to take the leap and begin a run/walk journey of their own. The Unicorn Stampede will hopefully become a tradition for some!

What makes the Unicorn Stampede a fun and exciting experience? 

Saturday is always a big exciting ILF day! The Unicorn Stampede is such a great way to start the morning! The run always has such a fun buzz in the air with everyone’s excitement/nervousness for the event. It’s so fun to cheer each other on and all celebrate in the amazing accomplishment of getting out there.

Can you tell me about any memorable moments during a Unicorn Stampede that stand out for you? 

In 2018, at our Buffalo ILF, a great friend of mine (Carolyn Shea) was helping to lead the Unicorn Stampede. She had committed to going out the morning of the 5K to mark the course. A few sisters and I joined her that morning. We had a great time walking and marking the course together! That same morning I realized I had left my sneakers at home and only had sandals with me! So instead of doing any running that day, I walked the 5K in sandals. At the time, I was disappointed that I had left my sneakers at home because a 5K in sandals wasn’t comfortable! But the experience allowed me to connect with other sisters who were walking too. My first, and only, 5K in sandals – definitely one to remember. It was a great morning!

What would you say to encourage sisters to participate, either virtually or in-person? 

If you are hesitant to participate, ask a sister or a group of sisters to join you! It is such a great bonding experience and great company makes the mileage seem to go more quickly. In addition, do not feel that a 5K means you need to run! So many people walk 5Ks (myself included! I will be walking again this year). Lastly, if you are hesitant because you may not know anyone else participating, this is a great time to meet new sisters. It really is such a fun experience together.

Anything else you want to add? 

I hope to see many sisters participate in this year’s Unicorn Stampede whether it’s in person or virtually! Time over time, virtual experiences have proven they can really bring people together.

Whether you are a runner, a walker or a watcher, the International Unicorn Stampede Fun Run is a great way to support the Educational Foundation of Delta Phi Epsilon. On Saturday, July 23, 2022 from 7:30-8:30 AM EST, in-person participants will enjoy a run/walk through the beautiful running paths at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, while virtual participants can join in the fun by taking a run/walk/stroll around their local favorite path at the same time or at their convenience. All participants will receive a one-of-a-kind participation medal. Click here to register for the Virtual Unicorn Stampede.

Lisa Shannon (Andrew) Condon, CBB, CSP, CSPO, is a sister from the Phi Tau chapter at Rutgers University – Camden and will be transitioning into the role of International President at this summer’s International Leadership Forum. She is the type of person who makes you feel comfortable with who you are and who is so familiar—yet, you cannot believe you have not yet met her. This most likely stems from her deep engagement with her community, as well as her 25+ years of experience in an executive capacity across sales, marketing and customer service.

A highly accomplished Senior Executive, C-Suite Officer, Entrepreneur, Consultant, and Board Member, Lisa’s broad areas of expertise include strategic planning, executive coaching, marketing strategy, business strategy and development, process development, social media and networking, and team building.

For decades, Lisa has cultivated her leadership and inclination to help others succeed by partnering with individuals and businesses on creative strategy, marketing solutions, and inspirational development. This became the foundation for Lisa Condon Enterprises (LCE), a company that sparks inspiration, innovation, and collaboration through gratitude.

Why do you volunteer for Delta Phi Epsilon?

As a young adult, after college graduation, I found myself focused on my career and ultimately in a state that was far away from where my chapter sisters were located. During that time, I grew personally and professionally, ultimately giving back to my local community by sitting on boards or committees. When I relocated to an area closer to where I went to college, the first thing I did was reach out to DPhiE to see how I could get involved. I had experience under my belt and I knew the importance of giving back to a community I loved. DPhiE not only impacted my life; but so many countless people directly or indirectly throughout varying phases of their life journey. DPhiE is a deep part of who I am and there is no better place for me to volunteer than to my chosen family.

What do you hope to accomplish while serving on the International Governing Board? Or what do you bring to the table?

As the incoming IGB President, there are many things I hope to accomplish. They all revolve around expansion, growth, and transformation. More than that; I want to inspire members of our sorority at every level of involvement and whatever part of the journey they are on. We have an opportunity to come together and make great change as a sisterhood. I want to work with the BOD and HQ to help lead that charge and pave the way for the DPhiE generations to come.

Favorite Delta Phi Epsilon memory? 

As a collegiate, the day my car got named the fruit-loop mobile. I will leave that to my Big, Lori, to tell the story someday. As an adult, the day that I received the call that I was nominated by Arleen to be on the IGB. It was an incredibly proud moment for me.

How has Delta Phi Epsilon impacted your life?

How has it not? I think when you are surrounded by a group of people who are living passionately and who are determined to make change as they can, you see the world differently. Especially in these last two years, where the organization had to pivot due to an international pandemic, I was absolutely inspired by the leadership of both Nicole and Roxanne, and the commitment of our membership. Together we stayed strong. This is empowering every single day, and elicits me to continue to bring out the best version of myself. I often remind myself of when I was interviewed by new members coming into the Phi Tau Chapter at Rutgers Camden and one of the questions was “What did I want to be after college?” My answer was, “Happy.” To this day, the choice to be a member of this amazing sisterhood has contributed to that happiness. 

If you could tell an undergraduate sister one thing, what would it be?

Live your authentic self passionately, as you never know who you are inspiring along the way. 

Lisa and the rest of the incoming IGB will transition into their positions at this year’s ILF on July 21 through July 24, 2022 at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Want to get in on the ILF fun? There’s still time! Register now for the Unicorn Stampede by clicking here.

This blog series is to highlight the members of the 2022 International Governing Board who will transition into their roles at this year’s International Leadership Forum. The International Governing Board focuses on the overall governance of the sorority and strategic planning for each biennium. These positions are elected every two years.

Kiara Josey- Gamma Lambda chapter, Caldwell University

From day one of the recruitment process during her freshman year at Caldwell University, it was clear to now senior Kiara Josey that the members of Delta Phi Epsilon had strong, unbreakable bonds that she strived to experience, especially during her undergraduate experience. 

After that moment, Kiara decided to join DPhiE and dedicate her next four years to developing those bonds while also pushing efforts in inclusion so more and more individuals could experience the friendships that she was able to form herself. 

Due to this steadfast commitment to inclusion and belonging, Kiara was nominated to represent the sorority as a whole at a recent virtual lobbying visit with her representatives. 

Normally hosted in Washington, DC, Kiara, along with representatives from other partnering sororities, met with offices of both representatives and senators virtually to discuss two pieces of legislation related to expanding the sorority experience. 

The undergraduate members were accompanied by representatives from the Fraternal Government Relations Coalition (FGRC), an organization dedicated to advocating for legislation that is important to the success of fraternity and sorority organizations across the country.

Kiara, along with a member from Sigma Delta Tau sorority, discussed the importance of Greek housing maintenance and anti-hazing policy. 

The Collegiate Housing and Infrastructure Act of 2021, if passed, would allow tax-exempt charitable or educational organizations to make collegiate housing and infrastructure grants to fraternities and sororities that apply such grants to their collegiate housing property. Currently, alumni members of chapters are not guaranteed donations made to the campus will enhance sorority or fraternity housing. 

The Report and Educate About Campus Hazing (REACH) Act would create a federal definition of hazing, require universities to include incidents of hazing in their Clery Act reporting and provide students with educational programming related to hazing. 

“This was my first time lobbying and I did not know much about the process going into the sessions,” Kiara said. “It was a really rewarding experience being able to represent DPhiE on issues that affect us everyday.”

Within her chapter, Kiara serves on the leadership team as the vice president of equity and belonging. When looking back at her experience so far as a member, she noted her favorite memories were helping the sorority to navigate through the last few years of social uprisings. 

From Black Lives Matter demonstrations across the country, to hate crimes targeting the AAPI community, Kiara helped her chapter navigate the best way to lead with empathy and make sure DPhiE is and remains an organization dedicated to diversity, inclusion and belonging. 

Because of her leadership within this space, Kiara received the nomination to represent the international community in the lobbying visit. 

“Because of DPhiE, I have been able to learn from fellow leaders on best practices to handle difficult situations and tactics to help navigate obstacles,” Kiara said. “I learned that lobbying for the things that matter most to you is a great way to get your voice heard.”