Lisa, a former U.S. Champion figure skater and athlete, navigated a college experience at the University of Texas that left her with little time to follow the traditional sorority path.
In fact, her Tri Delta journey began while volunteering with the Junior League of Los Angeles. She had just completed a fundraising certificate at UCLA and was interested in furthering her volunteer opportunities. After getting to know some area Tri Deltas, she visited our website to learn more about the Fraternity. There she saw mention of different paths to membership into Tri Delta—including Alumnae Initiation!
Since joining our sisterhood, Lisa has held roles as local house corporation treasurer at UCLA, financial specialist, collegiate chapter specialist and member of the alumnae expansion taskforce, (now called lifetime membership taskforce). She has been in her current role as Alumnae Initiation chair since 2020. A mother to an adult son, she resides in Colorado with her husband.
What made you decide to volunteer for Tri Delta?
“Simply, it comes down to our commitment to take on both the responsibilities and privileges of membership. One of these responsibilities is to give back.”
What do you get most out of volunteering?
“I have friendships that are deep and relevant, and I wouldn’t have them without my volunteer experience. I have been able to connect with others who share similar ideals. Discovering your community is a wonderful aspect—you can shape the extent of your involvement. Learning from everyone I meet provides a unique perspective, going beyond my personal experiences. Our ideals and pledge to Tri Delta encourage embracing the uniqueness of others, pushing ourselves and being vulnerable in leadership.”
What is your most memorable experience as a volunteer?
“I have three memorable experiences—of course, because we do things in threes! A memorable volunteering experience was meeting Julie Greene Haskell, Vermont, my sponsor, and formally being invited into Tri Delta. She exemplifies the ideals of membership. Another favorite memory was receiving personal phone calls for my volunteer service from then-Fraternity President Jackye Brown Clark, Texas/Arlington, while I was the finance specialist. I felt so valued and it inspired me to want to continue volunteering.
“My third is winning the Brave, Bold and Kind Award at the Volunteer Leadership Conference in 2023. I was diagnosed with a serious autoimmune disease three years ago and this award provided hope, purpose and recognition that my disease doesn’t define my life. Tri Delta recognizes my worth and abilities beyond my health challenges.”
What advice do you have for other Tri Deltas who are thinking about volunteering?
“My advice is simple: Say yes, do it and be open to trying whatever comes your way. Tri Delta sees in you what you may overlook about yourself. There are so many opportunities to give back and help, and Tri Delta extends beyond itself, contributing to the greater good. Tri Delta values you and recognizes you. There is also always someone there to help you, support you and encourage you to help you shine in your role.”