Tri Delta collegians and alumnae gathered on June 28 in Memphis, Tennessee, for St. Jude’s annual Tri Delta Celebration to mark another incredible year of fundraising. Tri Deltas raise more than $5.5 million annually for St. Jude but, this year, “celebration” took on a whole new meaning—as we reached a historic $100 million raised across our 25-year partnership.
“Tri Delta is proud to earn the distinction as the first Greek organization to raise $100 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Our members reached this historic milestone by pouring their hearts and souls into grassroots fundraising for a truly worthy cause. They remain a powerful reflection of our founding commitment to service and kindness. We are proud to partner with this incredible research hospital that is fiercely committed to ending childhood cancer once and for all.” —Fraternity President Megan Shaw James, Millsaps
Impactful Speeches and Personal Stories
The event kicked off with an impactful speech by Rick Shadyac, president and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising arm of St. Jude. He shared what “charitable living” means to him, and he thanked the legions of Tri Deltas around the world who are examples of living charitably each day.
The weekend included inspiring, touching stories from the McCays, parents of two former St. Jude patients, and Tri Delta alumna and St. Jude Pediatric Oncologist Dr. Beth Stewart, Missouri.
Members participated in breakout sessions covering fundraising basics, leadership, childhood cancer awareness and giving back after graduation. These sessions equipped our collegiate officers and alumnae members with new ideas to implement in their chapters.
“I am still thinking about this incredible weekend with women committed to Tri Delta’s values of friendship and self-sacrifice.” —Interim CEO Mindy Tucker, Southern Methodist
During campus tours, members saw firsthand how their fundraising efforts come to life visiting the Danny Thomas Research Center, the Danny Thomas/ALSAC Pavilion and Tri Delta Place, a short-term housing facility for St. Jude patient families. Tri Delta Place was even in the celebratory spirit, getting a brand-new mural that is visible throughout downtown Memphis! Members also engaged in our service project, creating welcome kits for the 8,000 families arriving at Tri Delta Place each year.
Celebrating a Historic Achievement
Tri Deltas celebrated their 25 years of partnership with St. Jude at the “Party Like It’s 1999” event. Members fostered a sense of community and connection while dancing, enjoying a silent disco, face painting, board games, desserts and photo opportunities.
But the highlight of the weekend was the announcement that in 25 years of partnership, Tri Delta has raised $100 million for the families of St. Jude! Tri Delta is the first non-profit partner and the fifth corporate partner overall to achieve this milestone. We joined the ranks of Domino’s, Best Buy, Chili’s and Signet Jewelers in this incredible category.
While we spent time last weekend looking back over 25 years and celebrating the work we have done, we recognize that there is tremendous work ahead. We are deeply inspired to continue raising funds and advocating for this vital cause—one pancake supper, dodgeball tournament, 5k and letter at a time—until we help fulfill the dream of St. Jude founder Danny Thomas that “no child should die in the dawn of life.” Together, the women of Tri Delta are making a significant difference in the lives of children and families around the world, and we invite you to join us in supporting the mission of St. Jude.