impacted my life and career journey so much, I’ve also been able to pour right back into sororities, day in and day out, across umbrella groups. I’m so humbled and grateful to Alpha Phi for allowing me to share my love of sororities and leadership with you all. ACH: What do you hope the main takeaway or benefit is for those participating in this partnership with the Fraternity? HM: Responsibility. We all have a role to play in prioritizing inclusion and belonging. And, truthfully, taking care of your members is the least we could do in our respective organizations. So, it’s my hope that no matter which topic, attendees are always intentional, thoughtful, considerate and kind to other members. Because if we do those things, then we can be inclusive by design. If we do those things, then holding other members accountable is expected and becomes natural. If we do those things, then the true impact of the organization is evident in the way members show up, communicate and interact. ACH: How can Alpha Phi’s members create a sense of belonging, from volunteers to local chapters, collegians and alumnae members? HM: We’ve been taught that belonging is synonymous with being part of a team, group or organization. But the reality is many of us have been part of groups, clubs, teams or organizations where we have felt left out. And that’s because belonging is less about a title and more about continuous feelings and reminders that you matter, connections are present and/or nurtured and there are meaningful interactions taking place. Creating a sense of belonging is less about just being invited to the party. A sense of belonging is curated and woven into the fabric of the party based on the menu, the playlist, the environment being accessible, etc. We all can be more intentional with ensuring others belong by getting to know the folks in the room; including outside perspectives, opinions and preference beyond our own and leaning into curiosity by asking meaningful questions that will lead to action. ACH: What does leadership look like for the sorority member today, and what responsibility comes with that role? HM: Leadership in a sorority is all encompassing. It means you’re a sibling, a coach, advisor, sometimes fashion consultant, hair stylist, the person who has to tell someone what they need to hear rather than what they want to hear, and a host of other “duties as assigned,” right?
need for collaboration, understanding and equity across umbrella groups to create a more inclusive Greek life community, [but] didn’t work in Greek affairs at the time. Instead, I was in campus programming. Because I was the only Black woman in my graduate program, many students of color would connect with me asking me for advice or for help with planning a retreat. From there, I went on to work in fraternity and sorority life with the goal of bridging gaps across differences and removing barriers to access. I’ve also presented at many regional and local student and professional conferences around advancing fraternities and sororities in addition to facilitating leadership retreats and developmental experiences. If you ask my mom, I’ve been holding a microphone since kindergarten I’ve always had something to say, and I find great joy in being able to use my voice for meaningful change.
ACH: Are you a member of a Greek organization?
HM: I am a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. I was initiated while at Western Michigan University and I’m currently involved in the Charlotte Alumnae Chapter. Additionally, I serve on our sorority’s national taskforce for Undergraduate and University Affairs. I love being a sorority woman. I really do. [And] while Delta has
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