Emily Stuart, Louisiana Tech, was a founding member of our Epsilon Pi Chapter. As a collegian in a brand-new Tri Delta chapter, she was able to witness the importance of chapter development consultants (CDCs)—and learned firsthand how Tri Delta could be transformed into a career opportunity after college. She applied to become a CDC and landed the job! After two years traveling for Tri Delta, she wasn’t quite ready to leave the organization.
During her exit interview, Emily expressed that the community and joy found at Tri Delta would be hard to come by in a typical job. She then learned about the job opening for a house director at Stephen F. Austin and it sparked her interest! She has been living and working in the Tri Delta house in Nacogdoches, Texas, while pursuing a degree in higher education and student affairs in graduate school with only three semesters left.
Why and how did you get involved with Tri Delta?
“Tri Delta has always been a consistent and positive part of my life, filling holes along the way that needed filling. It always seemed to match up with what I needed most, providing renewed purpose and value. Tri Delta has been a confirming and rewarding experience for me that continues to inspire me to this day. I believe that things always fall into place and where I am with Tri Delta now has been a confirming experience.”
What do you love about being a house director?
“One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role is being able to develop the collegiate women under my care. It’s invigorating when they seek me out for support, for conflict resolution or to write reference letters. It’s a humbling experience to have them trust me with such important parts of their lives and I value the relationships I’ve built with them.
“I also love the creative side of being able to plan fun things for the women! I planned a fun event for Taylor Swift’s album release with fellow Swifties where we listened to the whole album until after midnight while sipping mocktails. Taylor announced additional songs at 3:00 a.m., so we stayed up to listen again. We continued the event by watching the new music video the next morning, creating a memorable bonding experience.”
What does a typical week look like for you?
As a house director, Emily says no day is ever quite the same, but there are a few routines she’s established to keep things running smoothly. Each morning, she makes an effort to greet members and walk the facility with the chef, housekeeper and staff before heading to the grocery store (almost daily!) for produce, fruit and snacks!
“Family dinner is a highlight and I try to have our meals ready by 5:30-6:00 p.m. each night. My evening routine is closing up the facility, completing my walkthrough and making sure everyone is accounted for.”
How has being a house director contributed to your growth and development—professionally and/or personally?
“As a house director, I’ve learned valuable skills in managing others, and I take seriously the trust that parents place in me to take care of their children. Tri Delta is more than just a job to me—it’s a community that has given me my best friends and helped me navigate challenges in my personal life. The bonds I’ve formed with other house directors have also been invaluable. We understand each other’s challenges and can offer support and guidance. Above all, Tri Delta and being a house director has given me a continued sense of belonging—a community that gets me and supports me at every stage of my life.”
How has being a house director had a positive impact on your life?
“Working with so many young women taught me a lot about patience and consideration. I’ve come to understand the importance of accommodating different needs, whether it’s food restrictions or individual concerns. I’m creating a home and a space where everyone can develop and grow. This newfound sense of purpose has been invaluable, helping me chart a path for my future.
“Balancing the job as house director while also completing my school assignments is a juggling act, but my sense of purpose as a ‘house mom’ makes it all worthwhile.”
What advice do you have for those interested in being a house director?
“If you can build relationships and nurture friendships, you’re equipped to do this job. There’s a learning curve when it comes to facility management, but the real key to success is the ability to build a community. You’re never alone because you have support from staff and Tri Delta Executive Office. If you’re willing to create a space where everyone feels at home, then you have what it takes to excel as a house director. Don’t be afraid to take the leap!”
While Emily has loved her time as our Beta Xi Chapter’s house director, she is ready to take another leap—to Executive Office as our newest Brand Ambassador! The next time you call or stop by EO, be sure to give her lots of Delta Love.
If you are interested in learning more about our house director careers, we encourage you to visit the Tri Delta Housing Career Page, Tri Delta Housing Job Board or email hr@trideltaeo.org for more information.