Issue No. 3 2026 Quarterly Magazine

Check out the spring 2026 edition of the Quarterly!

Sisters by Chance and Choice

Page 18

Also Inside | Leadership Conference Recap | Chapter News | Limitless

A Look Inside

sights and vibes around campus.

Snapshot From personal and professional growth to lasting connections, volunteering for Alpha Phi offers countless benefits. Foundation Alpha Phi Foundation turns 70 this year, celebrating decades of vision, sisterhood and a lasting commitment to empowering women. Limitless Meet outstanding Alpha Phis pursuing limitless excellence in their personal and professional lives. Alpha Phi Finds Convention-ready? Check out Alpha Phi essentials for your June trip to The Grand Canyon State! High Energy, Higher Leadership From prep rallies to learning sessions, Leadership Conference 2026 left sisters energized, inspired and ready to lead. Guides Us Home Step inside Eta Kappa at the University of California, Irvine, and explore all the

Being Well A simple four-step bathroom reset to help reduce stress and welcome clarity. Amongst the Ivy Read accomplishments and updates from our collegiate members and chapters. Alpha Phi, Always Once an Alpha Phi, always an Alpha Phi. Catch up on the latest news from our alumnae members and chapters. Silent Chapter Forever an Alpha Phi, here and beyond. Join us in honoring the lives of sisters who have passed away. Ask Alpha Phi We asked, you answered. Check out our members’ responses to the latest social media poll question. Iconic Iota Chapter at the University of Wisconsin- Madison turns 130! Step back in time with one of its earliest photos.

1985 S. Josephine Street, Denver, Colorado 80210

Editorial Policy The purpose of the Alpha Phi Quarterly and its content is to provide information and services to the membership of the Alpha Phi Fraternity, in keeping with the Fraternity’s status as a 501 (c) (7) tax-exempt private membership organization. The magazine is devoted to highlighting its members and matters of fraternal and collegiate interest. The views expressed in the articles published in the Quarterly are those of the authors and their contributors, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Alpha Phi Fraternity, its officers or staff. Questions Please direct any submission questions or inquiries regarding advertising or reprint permissions to the editor-in-chief at quarterly@alphaphi.org.

alphaphi.org

@alphaphiintl

@alphaphi

Sisters by Chance and Choice Two sisters, six years apart, forge their own paths in Alpha Phi while growing closer along the way. Page 18

International President Kate Halfon (Eta Delta-CSU East Bay)

Welcome to the digital spring issue of the Quarterly ! Every member receives this issue, and if you enjoy these stories but aren't currently a dues-paying member, I encourage you to become one. By paying your dues, you'll continue to receive the magazine for a year-long subscription. And if you’re already a dues-paying member, thank you! Your dues support ongoing Fraternity operations, including publishing this very magazine, providing programming for our members and ensuring Alpha Phi will continue to support sisters for years to come. I’m especially excited about the stories in this issue, which showcase the strength and limitless potential of our sisterhood, which is the heart of Alpha Phi. We have a great recap of Leadership Conferences on Page 28. I had the privilege of attending both the South/West and North/East conferences, and I was truly inspired by our members’ energy and eagerness to learn. The awards ceremony was a powerful reminder of the incredible impact our collegians and volunteers are making on campuses across North America. I couldn't be prouder to call myself an Alpha Phi and stand alongside the remarkable leaders who shape our organization. As I wind down my time as International President, I leave this role knowing that Alpha Phi will be in very capable hands, as our volunteer leaders are truly remarkable women.

Our cover story is sure to put a smile on your face. Meet biological sisters Maddie Seesdorf (Beta Gamma-Colorado), new member and member experience advisor, and Ava Seesdorf (Beta Gamma- Colorado), a freshman serving as vice president of new member education. Discover how Alpha Phi has strengthened their sisterly bond on Page 18. If you haven’t stayed connected with your Alpha Phi sisters, I hope this issue inspires you to reach out and reconnect with them. Send a message to a former advisor letting them know the impact they made on you. Share your story of why sisterhood matters to you. Let’s continue to show everyone the value of the Alpha Phi experience.

Loyally,

Kate Halfon (Eta Delta-CSU East Bay) International President

Ex-officio: Rebecca Andrew Zanatta, Foundation Chair Foundation Directors Rebecca Andrew Zanatta, Chair Janelle Del Carlo, Vice Chair, Development Jackee Schools, Vice Chair, Funding Priorities Claire Costin, Treasurer Shana Goss Smith, Secretary Barbara Chappell Tingley, Assistant Treasurer Janis Coughlin-Piester, Assistant Secretary

Linda Schnetzer Executive Director Ex-officio: Kathleen (Kate) Boyle Halfon, International President Executive Office Executive Director: Renee Smith Zimmerman Zainer

International Executive Board Kate Boyle Halfon International President Billie Coskey Battiato Dawn Kreisel Bauer Karen Bloch Bavender Christen Bamford Shelton Flamm Jenny Concepción Hansen Elizabeth MeLampy Keri Miller Van Acker Ex-officio: Laura Malley-Schmitt, Council of Delegates Ex-officio: Renee Smith Zimmerman Zainer, Executive Director

Foundation Office Executive Director: Linda Schnetzer 1985 S. Josephine Street Denver, Colorado 80210 847.475.4532

info@alphaphifoundation.org www.alphaphifoundation.org National Panhellenic Conference

1985 S. Josephine Street Denver, Colorado 80210 847.475.0663 fraternity@alphaphi.org www.alphaphi.org

Council of Delegates: Laura Malley-Schmitt Chief Panhellenic Officer: Linda Long Boland Alternate Delegate: Laura Lynn Davidson Ellett

Susan McNeice Sheryl Barden Dara Goldsmith Jennifer Johnston

I was nervous I would lose the connection with Alpha Phi after graduating, but volunteering has kept me close to something I love and allowed me to continue evolving alongside it.” “

—Grace Monteleone (Iota Gamma-University of the Pacific), Page 6

Why Volunteer? A young alumna shares how giving back to Alpha Phi has strengthened her connection to the Fraternity and expanded her personal and professional growth.

Benefits of Volunteering

By Elizabeth Liberatore, editor-in-chief

Professional growth

Grace (center with glasses) and her chapter sisters celebrate Bid Day 2021.

Volunteers are the heart of our organization, giving their time, talents and treasures to sustain our sisterhood and ensure its vitality for generations to come. They are mentors. Advisors. Leaders. Confidants. Friends. And they do it all while balancing careers, families and the beautiful chaos of everyday life. No matter who you speak with, almost every volunteer will tell you the same thing: they give back because Alpha Phi has given them so much. One such volunteer is Grace Monteleone (Iota Gamma-University of the Pacific) , who currently serves as a recruitment advisor for her collegiate chapter. Grace shares more about her volunteer journey and why she continues to stay connected to Alpha Phi. When did you start volunteering for Alpha Phi, and what was your motivation? I stepped into my volunteer role in the summer after graduating in 2022. The torch was passed down to me by our previous recruitment advisor, Mindy Marvin Gray (Iota Gamma-University of the Pacific) , when she and her family moved to the East Coast. I was nervous to step into an

advisor role, especially for my own chapter, but I had seen the impact Mindy made over the years, and she always spoke about how much she loved volunteering. What motivated me most was my passion for Alpha Phi. The Fraternity was the single most influential part of my college experience, and I want the women who come after me to have a similar experience and value it as much as I do. How has volunteering influenced your sense of connection, purpose or belonging within Alpha Phi? I was nervous I would lose the connection with Alpha Phi after graduating, but volunteering has kept me close to something I love and allowed me to continue evolving alongside it. I not only get to share what I learned from my own experience, but I also learn something new each year — new approaches, new strategies, new perspectives — from the women themselves.

Lifelong connections

Mentorship

Networking

Stronger ties to Alpha Phi

We asked, another volunteer answered.

From your perspective, what are the greatest benefits of volunteering for Alpha Phi?

Volunteering for Alpha Phi has been rewarding, both personally and professionally. One of the biggest benefits is the network — connecting with women across the country and different career fields, opening doors and opportunities you might not access on your own. It also creates meaningful friendships that extend well beyond college, into motherhood, leadership roles and more. Serving as an advisor is especially fulfilling because I get to mentor young women as they grow into confident leaders, navigate executive board responsibilities and prepare for life after graduation. Volunteering can be flexible, impactful and deeply rewarding, and that’s why I keep coming back . — Atlee Matthews Smith (Epsilon Delta-Northern Illinois), chapter advisor of Epsilon Beta- Butler

Have you formed any lifelong friendships through your volunteer journey? During my first year as a volunteer, the chapter had an educational leadership consultant for recruitment, Cenie Arellano (Eta Theta-San Francisco State) ! We spent the entire week together and instantly clicked. Now, almost four years later, we still catch up over text and try to meet up whenever we find ourselves in the same city. I’m forever grateful our paths crossed through Alpha Phi. From your perspective, what are the biggest benefits of volunteering for Alpha Phi? The biggest benefit for me has been staying connected to Alpha Phi. For many people, it can feel like just a college phase, but volunteering allows you to see the Fraternity from an entirely new perspective. It’s also an incredible way to build your network. Our advisory board at Iota Gamma is made up of accomplished, successful women who are always willing to offer a recommendation, lend a helping hand or share advice. They’re generous with their time and genuinely happy to serve as

professional connections. It’s such a unique opportunity to work alongside women who have so much to offer both within Alpha Phi and beyond. For members considering volunteering, especially soon-to- be graduates, what advice or encouragement would you offer? My biggest advice is simple: if you can make the time, do it. Life is busy, but volunteering is incredibly rewarding and worth prioritizing if it’s something you’re interested in. It gives you a meaningful focus outside of work and everyday responsibilities, and it’s a chance to pass on what you’ve learned and truly make an impact. There’s nothing more fulfilling than being a role model and giving back to an organization that once gave so much to you. 

7 7

70 Years

By Katie Gates (Beta Upsilon-Oregon State), Alpha Phi Foundation marketing and communications manager

The Alpha Phi Foundation turns 70 this

Seventy years ago, a singular idea took root: the strength of our sisterhood could be channeled into a force for profound, lasting change — a change that continues to bloom today. That idea became the Alpha Phi Foundation. While Alpha Phi’s commitment to philanthropic work began earlier, its formal philanthropic journey took shape at Convention 1954, when delegates approved the creation of a dedicated Foundation. By 1956, this vision was formalized through a trust agreement, thanks to the foresight of Clara Ingwersen Carr (Iota-Wisconsin) , who led the effort, joined by Edna Rattray McGuire (Beta- Northwestern) and Martha Jarvis Sutton (Zeta-Goucher) , ensuring the Foundation was built on solid footing. What began as a dream to improve educational facilities, support scholarships and foster character and moral development has grown into a vibrant legacy. Today, the Alpha Phi Foundation stands as a testament to what is possible when we, as a sisterhood, stand hand-in-hand and choose to invest in one another. As we honor 70 years of meaningful impact, let us look at the Foundation’s mission, the bonds it fosters and the legacy it continues to build. The Heart of Our Mission At its core, the Foundation has always been guided by a simple yet radical

belief: philanthropy has the power to advance women’s lives. This mission has served as the organization’s steady compass for generations, anchored by five distinct pillars: • Empowering Leaders: Through innovative programming, including the Alpha Phi Leadership Institute and transformative conferences, the Foundation invests in the next generation of changemakers. It provides the tools, confidence and community each member needs to reach her full potential. • The Pursuit of Knowledge: Since the very first scholarships in the summer of 1959, which included 10 scholarships and a grant to the Variety Club Heart Hospital, the Foundation has understood the weight of its impact. For countless members, these awards serve as a bridge between a dream and a tangible degree, allowing them to focus on their education and enjoy the benefits of our sisterhood rather than the burden of college costs. • A Champion for Heart Health: The Foundation’s dedication to women's cardiovascular health began long before it was formally incorporated, with Cardiac Aid officially selected as the Fraternity's philanthropy in 1946. Under the steadfast leadership of Helen Crowder Weisser (Beta Epsilon-

year, celebrating decades of vision, sisterhood and a lasting commitment to empowering women.

Arizona) , who served as chair

early, low-key solicitation marked the beginning of a philanthropic journey that has raised millions to secure our future. Today, that "biggest hug" — the support described by so many members — reflects the understanding that

SHARE YOUR FOUNDATION

for 18 years, this cause flourished. From the nostalgic fundraising efforts of selling heart- shaped lollipops in the 1960s and 1970s to today’s groundbreaking research grants, Alpha Phis have been unwavering in their commitment to saving lives.

STORY WITH US! Submit stories, quotes and photos to help us celebrate 70 years of impact!

being an Alpha Phi isn’t just a collegiate experience; it’s a

lifelong community of encouragement, strength and unwavering loyalty. Shaping a Dynamic Future As we look toward the horizon, the Foundation’s strategic path remains clear: to innovate, to sustain, to expand our reach. Our shared values, reinvigorated by the vibrant spirit of today’s members, are the driving force behind everything we do. Our donors are the architects of this future.

• Supporting

Join our celebration and follow along as we count down 70 pivotal moments and impactful women in Alpha Phi Foundation history. Visit www.aphifdn. org/celebrating70, and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn @alphaphifoundation!

Sisters in Need: Through the Forget Me Not Grant Fund, the Foundation serves as a safety net for sisters when life takes an unexpected turn. Whether responding to natural disasters or providing quiet, vital support

during personal health crises, this fund embodies the promise that in Alpha Phi, no one walks alone. • Honoring Our Heritage: By preserving the rich history of the Fraternity, the Foundation ensures that the wisdom of our Founders and early visionaries — who promoted the "Ivy Chain" of giving with such optimism — continues to guide us today and for generations to come. A Legacy Built on Connection The story of the Foundation is a testament to the creative spirit of Alpha Phi women. In the early days, leaders like Georgia Neese Gray (Upsilon- Washburn) encouraged members to contribute at levels suitable to their circumstances — asking sisters to "add a link to the Ivy Chain" or "add to the brightness of Stars in the Dipper.” That

Every gift, whether to the Ivy Fund in support of our areas of greatest need or through long-term legacy planning, is an investment in the limitless potential of our members. When we give, we’re not only funding a program; we’re telling every Alpha Phi that she’s worth investing in. As we celebrate 70 years of the Foundation, we invite you to reflect on your own journey: How has this sisterhood shaped you? How have you helped shape the path for those who follow? Together, we’re not only looking back at a legacy of success; we’re actively illuminating the path forward, ensuring that for the 70 years and beyond, Alpha Phi remains a source of vision and vitality for every woman who calls it home. 

By Elizabeth Liberatore, editor-in-chief

MAYA MOMON (Delta Delta-Oklahoma City) Professional Dancer

Kansas City-born and -raised Maya Momon (Delta Delta-Oklahoma City) was born to dance. She took her first dance class — tap — at the tender age of two. All those

shuffle ball changes made her heart swell, and she knew early on that dance was her calling. Fast- forward 25 years: Maya, now 27, is still dancing. She's currently serving as dance captain aboard the Disney Wonder, leading a 30-member ensemble of professional dancers and singers.

“I have to thank my sister for introducing me to dance. She did it first, and I really just wanted to do anything she did,” Maya laughs.

From tap to lyrical and hip-hop to jazz, Maya enrolled in every dance class her local studio offered. At Oklahoma City University (OCU), she studied dance management, leaning into the business side of the industry while continuing to train in the studio and courtside with the OCU Pep Dancers. Her campus involvement didn’t stop there. Maya was active in OCU’s Black Student Association and Students of Art Management, served as a new student orientation leader and joined Alpha Phi during her second semester of freshman year. Within Delta Delta Chapter, she served as director of sisterhood and chapter president. Today, Maya is Delta Delta’s health, wellness and accountability advisor.

Maya and her fellow Delta Delta sisters on graduation day in 2021.

After graduating in 2021, Maya spent a year working for the Alpha Phi Foundation as chapter giving coordinator. “It’s a very full-circle moment that I got to help Alpha Phis attend Disney Institute, and now I work for Disney,” Maya says. Following her time with the Foundation, Maya danced on a Norwegian cruise line and served in Kansas City Ballet’s fundraising department. After a year of performing stateside, she received an offer to work aboard the Disney Wonder. Maya set sail in March, where she performs in nightly shows through the end of September. "It's been a lot of work — between running rehearsals, learning choreography, communicating with leadership and dancers and teaching routines to new cast members who join the vessel along the way,” Maya shares. “However, I’m beyond excited to work for such a well-known company and to travel the world.” Maya packed plenty of books and paint for her journey. Getting lost in someone else’s story helps her unwind after 12-hour days of dancing. And when she’s missing her family and friends, Maya finds comfort painting them custom postcards to let them know where she is and what she’s been up to along the way. This Alpha Phi’s life trajectory has been anything but linear, from working in nonprofits to traveling the world as a professional dancer. She has found home on both land and water, and she has faced rejection more times than she can count — a hard truth in this industry. For these reasons and many others, Maya most aligns with Alpha Phi’s high ideal of innovation. “I’ve had to be very innovative and creative to continue working in the industry I do, an industry my two-year-old self would be proud

LINDA LONG BOLAND (Gamma Kappa-CSU Long Beach) Champion for Youth

Linda Boland (Gamma Kappa-CSU Long Beach) has long held a special place in her heart for Anguilla, a British Overseas Territory in the eastern Caribbean. Since 1991, she and her family have divided their time between California and this sun-drenched island paradise. While the pristine white-sand beaches, gourmet dining and effortlessly luxurious atmosphere initially drew them in, it’s the warmth and spirit of the people that have kept them coming back year after year. “You’ll never find kinder, more helpful people than Anguillans,” Linda says. Ever since joining Alpha Phi more than 40 years ago, Linda has embraced the value of giving back to the communities and organizations that matter most to her. She has poured herself into Alpha Phi as a volunteer for decades. From chapter advisor and committee member to 2010-14 International President, Linda has devoted much of her adult life to serving the Fraternity that has given her so much. “I know from my work with Alpha Phi that giving time and energy to help young people ultimately makes the world a better place,” she says. “Every minute and every dollar makes a difference in young people’s lives, and that ripple effect makes the world a better place.” Beyond shaping the lives of college women in North America, Linda is also making a meaningful impact on the children of Anguilla, her second home. In January 2025, she founded Anguilla Schoolbooks Foundation, a U.S.- based nonprofit association that provides subject-matter

textbooks and workbooks for Anguilla’s primary school students. Linda recognized a sobering truth in her community: school-aged children were unable to reach their full potential in the classroom due to a lack of basic educational materials. In Anguilla, the government doesn't provide textbooks or workbooks, and for many families, purchasing these resources is simply not an option. That’s when Linda — and her 100% donor- funded nonprofit association — stepped in to do something about it. In its first year alone, the Anguilla Schoolbooks Foundation purchased and distributed textbooks and workbooks to more than 60 children. That number continues to grow, driven by Linda’s ultimate goal: to ensure that every primary school student in Anguilla has the materials they need to succeed. For Linda, an educator by trade, there is nothing more meaningful than watching Anguilla students smile when their teacher asks them to pull out their textbooks because they finally have one to pull from their backpacks. “A child who has the materials needed to succeed in class doesn’t feel embarrassed because they are different from their peers,” Linda says. “That child is proud to be prepared, ready to learn like everyone else.” Whether in the United States or Anguilla, Linda’s commitment to service is rooted in one belief: champion today’s youth, give them the tools to learn and grow and they will shape a better future for us all.

After earning her master’s degree in business administration in 2024 from University of Central Florida, Bri dove headfirst into exploring marketing and public relations career paths. An internship with JAXUSA, a private nonprofit arm of the Jacksonville Chamber, set her squarely on her current trajectory as a marketing and talent intern. “I learned so much there in terms of marketing 101 and all the essential skills needed to succeed in this industry. Funny enough, my boss was an Alpha Phi!” Her next opportunity brought her into the professional sports arena. Bri joined the Orlando Magic for the 2024-25 season as a marketing strategy graduate associate, soaking in every moment. She attended networking events, joined online communities for women in sports and immersed herself fully in the industry. Building on that experience, she transitioned into her current role as advertising coordinator for the Memphis Grizzlies. From outlining KPIs and building strategy to managing campaigns and advertising needs, Bri does it all. No two days in professional sports look the same, but she thrives on that type of chaos. “There are always new things that keep me pivoting, which is good,” she says. “I’m never stagnant.” While several opportunities helped shape her path, Bri was ultimately the one who chose to step into them. From Alpha Phi to her years as an ELC to pursuing marketing and public relations, she eagerly embraced each new challenge with confidence and intention.

BRI ARMENTEROS (Iota Psi-North Florida) Sports Marketing Maven

When it comes to our High Ideals of Membership, Bri Armenteros (Iota Psi-North Florida) resonates most deeply with generosity. Growing up in Orlando, Florida, Bri and her sister learned early from their parents that when an opportunity to give back arises, it’s one to embrace wholeheartedly. “Giving back is one of main priorities in life,” Bri emphasizes. Her words match her actions. Bri volunteers for several organizations that matter to her. For Alpha Phi, she serves as the marketing advisor for Kappa Gamma-Southeast Missouri State and the recruitment advisor for Iota Psi-North Florida. She also regularly volunteers at the Memphis Humane Society and local food banks. “I feel like so many opportunities and incredible things have come my way,” Bri reflects, “and giving back ensures I provide the same respect and support to others.” Alpha Phi became one of those life-changing opportunities for Bri. She joined the Fraternity her freshman year, the first in her family to pursue Greek life. Although it was the last chapter she visited during recruitment, Alpha Phi was the first to make her feel truly comfortable and welcomed. She served her chapter as director of sisterhood, vice president of new member education and programming and chapter president during her senior year. Bri graduated from the University of North Florida in 2021 with dual degrees in social work and political science. While she had always planned to pursue law school, specifically sports law, her goals began to shift during her time as an educational leadership consultant (ELC) from 2021-23. “During that period, I reflected on what I truly wanted,” Bri shares. “That’s when I realized law school wasn’t the right path for me. I’ve always been fascinated by the psychological side of marketing, analyzing how ads and campaigns influence people, so when it came time to choose a direction, marketing naturally became my focus.”

So, what’s next for this sports marketing maven? Bri hopes to move into a management or director position, with dreams of eventually reaching

one of the biggest stages in sports. “I want to make my

way into the NFL,” she shares. “All the effort I’m putting in now is helping me work toward that goal.”

Circle: Piper and her fellow executive council members of Gamma Alpha Chapter at Leadership Conference.

coordinating volunteers and planning the event to overseeing fundraising efforts, she did it all. Now studying leadership studies and psychology on the opposite coast, she has passed the baton to two young women back home who were eager to step into larger leadership roles for Be the Difference. Now 19, Piper still dedicates time each week to the event, balancing her responsibilities with coursework and extracurriculars, including her involvement in Alpha Phi. With a heart for helping others, spreading kindness and compassion in every interaction, it’s no surprise that Piper serves as her chapter’s director of philanthropy. Drawing on her Be the Difference experience, she has thrown herself into the role, making a tangible impact.

PIPER WYMAN (Gamma Alpha-San Diego State) A Humanitarian Heart

What fills Piper Wyman’s (Gamma Alpha-San Diego State) cup is helping others. While many teens her age were exploring self-expression and testing boundaries, a then 16-year-old Piper was channeling her energy into something bigger than herself: founding an annual community event in her hometown of Middletown, New Jersey. In 2023, she launched Be the Difference, a suicide awareness and prevention walk held each May in honor of Mental Health Awareness

Month. In just three years, the event has raised nearly $35,000 for the American Foundation

“I’m especially proud of

successfully hosting our annual Crush Week,” Piper says. “Despite some uncooperative

for Suicide Prevention’s New Jersey Chapter — a testament to Piper’s leadership and her community’s heart. With this year’s walk set for May 31, Piper already has her sights set on an even bigger milestone. “This year, my goal is to bring our total funds raised to $50,000,” she shares. “I truly believe me and my community can do this together.”

weather, I stayed positive, planned events for each day and my chapter showed up every time. I know this is just the beginning, and I hope to continue making my chapter proud.”

Proud doesn’t even capture it. Piper has left a lasting mark on her Middletown community, where she is known as a fierce advocate for suicide prevention and awareness. Within her Alpha Phi chapter, her dedication to women’s heart health and philanthropy that empowers women shines just as brightly. While she’s still exploring which professional path she’ll pursue post-college, one thing is certain: Piper will continue making a positive impact on the lives of her communities. “I’m interested in so many different things that I’ve struggled to define what career I want to pursue,” Piper says. “All I know for sure is that I want a career that brings happiness, helps people, guides people and brings them together.” 

The inspiration behind Be the Difference is deeply personal. Piper experienced the heartbreak of losing not

one, but two friends to suicide. As she saw more lives in her community affected in the same way, she realized this was an epidemic. She turned her grief into action. “I just knew I wanted to make a difference in my town,” Piper shares. “My dad encouraged me to reach out to our town to see what I could do. I spoke with Middletown Mayor Tony Perry, who helped me bring this idea to life. I told him I wanted to be the difference in our town, and that’s how the name and the walk came to be.” For the first two years, Piper managed nearly every aspect of the walk’s day-to-day operations. From

Two sisters, six years apart, forge their own paths in Alpha Phi while growing closer along the way.

Words by Elizabeth Liberatore, editor-in-chief Photos by Tim Gillies

A six-year age gap between siblings doesn’t seem like much, at least not on paper. But in childhood, six years can feel like an entirely different lifetime. When one sister is learning long division, the other is learning how to drive. Maddie and Ava Seesdorf know this feeling well. Now 24 and 18, the sisters have more in common than they ever did growing up. “I was a kid when Maddie was a teenager, so we weren’t really close since we couldn’t relate to each other,” Ava says. “That changed when I got to high school and Maddie went off to college.” Maddie and Ava call Broomfield, Colorado, home, but their family also spent two years living in Singapore when they were younger — an experience they both still cherish. “Living in Singapore changed my life,” Maddie says. “Maddie remembers a lot more than I do, and she definitely speaks more Mandarin,” Ava adds. “But it shaped me too.” Those early experiences would become part of what shaped their paths — paths that eventually led both sisters to the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder), and ultimately to Alpha Phi, bringing them closer than ever.

Maddie (left) and her younger sister Ava (right).

Maddie’s Moment

What initially drew Maddie to CU Boulder and Alpha Phi was a family connection: her cousin, Sara Casasanta (Beta Gamma-Colorado) . Visiting Sara on campus, Maddie got a firsthand look at the lifelong friendships her cousin was forming in the chapter house and thought, I want this someday, too . That someday happened in 2020, when Maddie received her bid from Alpha Phi. “I remember a feeling of complete fulfillment when I got my bid,” Maddie says. “Alpha Phi had been a part of my life since high school through my cousin, so it just felt right to finally have a place in the sisterhood I had always admired.” Maddie dove into Beta Gamma Chapter eager to make a real difference. During her junior year, she served as vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion, a role that helped her step confidently into her leadership. “It made me fall in love with community service and realize that I wanted to continue leading and creating positive change within my chapter,” she says. She continued that path by serving as chapter president during her senior year. Through the role, Maddie developed everything from people and problem- solving skills to becoming an active listener, gaining more than she ever imagined. “Being chapter president taught me so much about myself. It was an experience I wouldn’t change for the world.” Maddie graduated in 2024 with a degree in elementary education. She’s back home in Broomfield, working as a key account manager for Boulder-based

handbag company, where she gets to work alongside her former roommate and Alpha Phi sister. Alpha Phi continues to play a big role in her life. Since graduating, Maddie has volunteered with the Fraternity in several capacities, including finance and housing advisor, health, wellness and accountability advisor and currently as new member education and member experience advisor for her collegiate chapter, Beta Gamma-Colorado. To Maddie, there’s nothing more rewarding in an advisory role than helping young women feel excited and confident in their leadership positions. “I feel like a lot of women are in leadership roles within Alpha Phi and don’t realize the strong impact they have on the future of their chapter,” she explains. “It’s really empowering to witness what they’re capable of.” Beyond the collegiate ties, Maddie also loves deepening the relationships she has with Executive Office staff members and other volunteers across the state and the country. “Being on exec for two years, I became really close with our advisors and other staff members,” she says. “It’s so rewarding to continue those friendships and build new ones.” A year after Maddie graduated and began her volunteer journey, it was Ava’s turn to step into college life. Having watched her older sister fall in love with CU Boulder and Alpha Phi, Ava felt drawn to follow a similar path while making the experience entirely her own.

Ava's Journey Ava may have the carefree energy often associated with younger siblings, but beneath it is a strong sense of discipline. She describes herself as independent,

Colorado than with any other group she met during recruitment. Here, she could be her true, authentic self, and that self was welcomed with open arms. The feeling was mutual. Beta Gamma sisters extended Ava a bid, welcoming another Seesdorf sister into the chapter. When Ava ran home on Bid Day, Maddie was there to greet her. At the time, Maddie was helping with the recruitment team, making the moment even more special...for both of them. “When I opened my bid, I immediately started running because I was so excited,” Ava says. “I wanted to see my Bid Day buddy who I had talked to throughout recruitment, and of course my sister, to show her that I had found my home.” “The moment I saw her running home to me on Bid Day is a feeling I can barely describe,” Maddie reflects. “I’m just so proud of her for following her heart and finding the place right for her.”

while Maddie prefers the word “self- sufficient.” That confidence, and her dedication to whatever she sets her mind to, gave Ava an edge when she arrived on campus. A freshman at CU Boulder, Ava is studying business administration with an emphasis in finance and marketing. At just 18, she already has her sights set on becoming a financial analyst. She’s well on her way, too, having already interned where Maddie works, gaining real-world business experience. Ava knew before even graduating high school that she would go through sorority recruitment in college. Her sister’s positive experience encouraged her to give it a try herself. While Ava approached the process with an open mind and hoped to find the place that felt right for her, separate from Maddie’s experience, she admits she always hoped Alpha Phi might be that home. “I knew I wanted to be a part of Alpha Phi, but during recruitment I kept an open mind, and Maddie remained very neutral as well,” Ava says. “She helped me pick out my outfits and gave me insight into what I might talk about, but she ultimately told me to be myself and choose the place where I felt most at home.” It quickly became clear that home was Alpha Phi. Ava found herself having deeper, more intentional conversations with the women of Beta Gamma-

Paths Converge Ava has already made her mark in Alpha Phi. She currently serves as her chapter’s vice president of new member education, a role that has boosted her confidence and marks just the beginning of her leadership journey within the chapter. “This experience has already been so rewarding and has shaped me into a better person,” Ava says. “I love giving back to the Alpha Phi community, and I’m planning to run for another position next year to continue doing that.” From once sharing clothes (depending on who you ask) when they were younger to now exchanging ideas about Alpha Phi, the sisters have built a relationship where they see each other as peers, and the six-year age gap seems to shrink as they grow older. “We both know that we need to focus on our ideas and new member plans before we can talk about the fun stuff,” Maddie says. Ava adds, “My position is demanding during the new member period, so it’s really nice to have someone who will help me at any time of the day, no matter how urgent or what the topic is. I wouldn’t trade having Maddie as my advisor for the world.” When asked how Alpha Phi has deepened their relationship as sisters and friends, Ava sums it up best: “Alpha Phi has given Maddie and me the chance to be sisters both by chance and by choice. It’s so special to share something that means so much to both of us. My experience has become even more meaningful knowing we get to grow together, celebrate each other and make memories hand-in-hand.” 

Ava and Maddie on Ava's Bid Day.

Sister Stuff Quarterly: What’s one thing you love but you sister doesn’t? Maddie: I love relaxing at home. Ava loves going out with friends, even just to get ice cream. Me? I’d prefer a chill night in with a movie. Ava: I love sweets, and Maddie’s indifferent about them. She won’t just go get ice cream with me, which is honestly one of my favorite things to do. Quarterly: Growing up, were you best friends, built-in rivals or something in between? Maddie: We became super close once I went to college. We had fun as kids, but our breakthrough moment came when I left for school and we both realized how much we needed each other during that transition. Ava: We occasionally argued about very minor things, like stealing clothes or the other sister being “mean.” Otherwise, I’d say we’ve always been unspoken best friends. Quarterly: Describe your sister in a few words. Maddie: Hard-working, driven, relatable, kind. Ava: Confident, respectful, kind.

Alpha Phi

Convention-Ready! Convention is almost here — June 17-21! We’ve rounded up the ultimate Alpha Phi must-haves: a chic weekender bag, travel-friendly pouches and meaningful jewelry featuring our letters. Pack your bags, show off your Alpha Phi pride and get ready to make memories in Tucson, Arizona (just don’t forget your sunscreen!).

Your guide to everyday finds with a touch of Alpha Phi

LULULEMON BELT BAG $52 | bit.ly/AlphaPhiBeltBag

WAFFLE WEAVE COSMETIC BAG $32 | bit.ly/AlphaPhiWaffleBag

PASSPORT HOLDER AND LUGGAGE TAG $30 | bit.ly/AlphaPhiTravelGiftSet

WEEKENDER BAG $86 | bit.ly/AlphaPhiWeekender

LULULEMON BACKPACK $98 | bit.ly/AlphaPhiBackpack

PUFFER-STYLE TOILETRY BAG $30 | bit.ly/PufferToiletryBag

ALPHA PHI BEADED BRACELET $98 | bit.ly/AlphaPhiBracelet

LILY OF THE VALLEY PITCHER $50 | bit.ly/LilyValleyPitcher

ALPHA PHI TUMBLER $40 | bit.ly/AlphaPhiTumbler

PARADISE PALMS RIBBED SHIRT $30 | bit.ly/AlphaPhiSummerShirt

Products and prices were compiled in February 2026 and are subject to change.

High Energy, Higher Leadership From prep rallies to learning sessions, Leadership Conference 2026 left sisters energized, inspired and ready to lead.

By Elizabeth Liberatore, editor-in-chief

Sunshine. Energy. Inspiration. Fun. Insightful.

Those are just a few words collegians used to describe Leadership Conference 2026. Each year, Alpha Phi hosts an immersive leadership experience for collegiate officers and dedicated alumnae volunteers, equipping them with the tools and confidence to lead their chapters with purpose. Over two unforgettable weekends in January and February, members connected, collaborated and grew together. They exchanged ideas with fellow executive council members, learned from seasoned volunteers and engaged in dynamic educational sessions led by Alpha Phi Executive Office (EO) staff and volunteers. And of course, no Alpha Phi event would be complete without sisterhood at its heart. Leadership Conference created countless opportunities to laugh, build meaningful connections and return home with memories that will last long after the the conference weekends. Leadership Conference 2026 was held over two in-person weekends at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. Weekend One, January 30-February 1, welcomed South and West chapters, whose enthusiasm set the tone for the weeks ahead. Weekend Two, February 6-8, brought together North and East chapters for another inspiring round of learning and connection. A virtual conference on January 25 also allowed members to participate in the experience and access valuable educational content from afar. Friday South/West and North/East chapters arrived at the Sheraton Denver Downtown on Friday, instantly filling the lobby with Alpha Phi pride. Members traveled to the Mile High City in coordinated chapter sweatsuits in some of our favorite hues: Bordeaux (of course!), steel blue, ivy, blush and ivory. Many added custom lettering to their travel gear, proudly showcasing chapter names and executive council titles.

Natalie Bills, Julia Williams and Gabrielle Michalak of Iota Eta-DePaul.

Following check-in and registration, members kicked off the

Sophia Hurtado and Olivia Belue of Iota Omega-Ole Miss.

“I’m really excited to learn how to promote continuous open bidding on our campus year after year to bring in new sisters. Leadership Conference has been absolutely amazing, and I can’t wait to learn from everyone around me.” —Zooey Dean (Theta Rho- Cameron), chapter advisor “As the vice president of equity and inclusion, I can’t wait to dive into the session Today’s Landscape of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and bring back practical tools to my chapter so we can be true pillars of DEI work on our campus.” —Leeyah Gray (Eta Theta-San Fransico State), vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion

Executive council members of Kappa Beta-UC San Diego.

weekend with an Alpha Phi Game Night-themed welcome dinner. Tables were set with bingo cards and icebreakers, while the International Executive Board (IEB) took center stage to host Kahoot, an interactive quiz, and even a spirited spelling bee featuring toughies like Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Duquesne University. In true Alpha Phi fashion, members enjoyed a beloved tradition: Taco Friday. Beyond the games and laughter, the evening featured inspiring remarks from Executive Director Renee Smith Zimmerman Zainer (Beta Epsilon-Arizona) , International President Kate Boyle Halfon (Eta Delta-CSU East Bay) and Alpha Phi Foundation Chair Rebecca Andrew Zanatta (Beta Rho-Washington State). Each speaker emphasized the excitement ahead, the depth of leadership gathered in the room and the impact of the Alpha Phi Foundation.

The 2024-26 International Executive Board at the North/East conference.

Collegiate leaders celebrate at the North/ East conference.

Incredible Dedication! The longest-serving volunteer at the South/ West conference has 52 years with Alpha Phi, and at the North/East conference, 49 years — truly inspiring!

The evening concluded with a special moment of recognition as volunteers stood to a well-deserved round of applause for their dedication to the Fraternity. As a small token of appreciation, each volunteer received a custom Alpha Phi playing card deck. Members then attended executive council orientation sessions before heading off to rest up for a full day of learning. Saturday Saturday began bright and early with a breakfast buffet and plenty of coffee to fuel the day ahead. Our incredible vendors also were on-site and ready to connect with members, showcasing everything from housing support and financial services to apparel and chapter essentials. Vendors remained open throughout the day, allowing members to stop by, ask questions and explore on a come-and-go basis. Education was the focus of Saturday. Dynamic sessions filled the day’s agenda, covering topics such as finance and chapter health, new member engagement, strengthening sisterhood connections, diversity, equity and inclusion, potential member outreach, marketing and social media strategy, navigating mental health as sisters, community building, risk management and more. Sessions were led by EO staff and volunteers, ensuring members received expert guidance and practical takeaways to bring back to their chapters.

Sophia Houlihan (Beta Beta- Michigan State) and Avery Arche (Beta Mu-Alabama) at Alpha Phi Game Night.

International President Kate Boyle Halfon (Eta Delta-CSU East Bay) and Grace Czechowski Llojaj (Theta Kappa- Rochester).

Attendees by the Numbers South/West: 899 (644 collegians + 255 alumnae) North/East: 655 (494 collegians + 161 alumnae)

Namritha Murugavel and Maggie Williams of Delta Mu-Purdue.

Members file into the main ballroom for the Alpha Phi Pep Rally!

Lucy Gregg (Iota Omega-Ole Miss) and Rachel Walser (Beta Mu-Alabama) at the North/East conference.

“I’m most excited to learn more about our philanthropic focus on advancing women’s heart health. As my chapter’s vice president of philanthropy, this work is deeply important to me, and I look forward to bringing that awareness to my chapter in both big and small ways.” —Cesia Velazquez (Theta Sigma- Southern Utah), director of philanthropy “I’m eager to learn about other schools and chapters and to see what their officers are doing in health, wellness and accountability. I can’t wait to connect with other members serving in the same executive council role as me.” —Dunya Fakhri (Eta Theta-San Fransico State), vice president of health, wellness and accountability

As the sun set behind the majestic Rocky Mountains, members swapped their business formal attire for school- spirited looks at an energetic (like, really energetic) Alpha Phi Prep Rally-themed dinner. Staff welcomed collegians and alumnae through a spirit tunnel into the main ballroom, where additional staff and IEB members cheered from every corner — some standing on chairs — waving pom- poms and dancing to hype up the crowd. And just when the hype couldn’t get any higher, Alpha Phi cheerleaders and a Phi bear mascot made surprise appearances. Members poured into the ballroom in their school-spirited gear, instantly joining the fun with everyone else.

A three-course dinner was served alongside meaningful remarks from Alpha Phi leadership, but the highlight of the evening was the award ceremony. Members brought home

honors ranging from Outstanding Recruitment Volunteer to Outstanding Financial Management. Cheers echoed through the ballroom as chapters and volunteers were celebrated one after another. After awards were presented, hugs were exchanged and heartfelt remarks were shared, bringing Saturday evening to a joyful close. Sunday On Sunday, our members returned home carrying more than just suitcases. They brought back renewed purpose, meaningful connections and valuable resources to help their chapters and sisters thrive.

We’ll catch you next year at Leadership Conference 2027! 

Patterns and Textures and Accents, Oh My! at Eta Kappa-UC Irvine

By Elizabeth Liberatore, editor-in-chief

Whoever said mixing patterns is a design faux pas clearly hasn’t stepped inside Eta Kappa Chapter of Alpha Phi at the University of California, Irvine . During the 2024-25 academic year, the 1872 Properties Construction and Design Team refreshed the chapter’s main-floor common area with one goal in mind: to create a welcoming gathering space where sisters can unwind, connect, study and build lifelong memories. Funded by Eta Kappa Chapter Property Committee, the transformation was achieved entirely through intentional design updates — no construction

required. By thoughtfully layering patterns, textures and meaningful accents, like a plush Phi bear, the design team brought new life to the common area…all without a single sledgehammer in sight. Our branded color palette is woven throughout the first floor, from rich berry and Bordeaux tones to fern and powder blue hues, creating spaces that feel both modern and unmistakably Alpha Phi. In the living room, a velvet berry- colored sectional takes center stage and is complemented by light blue suede polka-dot chairs. Neutral rugs in varying materials, like jute and shag, anchor the

space and add warmth, giving it a real lived-in feeling. Accents such as vases, lamps, blankets, pillows, rattan storage baskets and drapes add finesse while letting the bold colors and patterns of the larger furnishings shine. From studying at the dining table to lounging on the comfy sectional or curling up with a book in the foyer chairs, sisters can enjoy the first floor exactly as the design team intended. And hopefully, when members think back on their college years, they’ll recall all the laughter that filled their chapter’s halls.

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