Mary White Lott, Oklahoma State, originally from Houston, has had quite an adventurous journey throughout her lifetime. After completing her college education, she moved to Lake Tahoe, California, and worked as a Blackjack dealer. She then returned to Texas and settled in Austin, where she volunteered for Tri Delta as an alumna advisor for Theta Zeta Chapter. After spending three years in Austin, she picked up her life again—this time moving to Las Vegas. She soon realized she missed her involvement with Tri Delta and returned to volunteering as a collegiate district officer (CDO) for the next eight years. She was then asked to join the Panhellenic team, which she claims to be the best volunteer position she has ever held!
Mary and her husband, Tom, (whom she knew from high school) currently reside in Park City, Utah. They have two adult children, Andy and Lindsay, as well as a 2.5-year-old granddaughter, Rowan.
What made you decide to volunteer for Tri Delta?
“Being in Austin with Theta Zeta Chapter made it easy for me to get involved, as I had a desire to mentor young women and connect with the alumnae group. It was my first experience with volunteering and I valued the connection to the chapter and the opportunity to guide and support younger women. In Las Vegas, where I didn’t know anyone, I felt a sense of longing and wanted to become more involved. Unfortunately, there was no chapter in Las Vegas, so I decided to become a CDO to fill the void of missing friendships.”
What do you get most out of volunteering?
“Observing the achievements of the women I have interacted with, from their graduation to their progress in the world and within Tri Delta, is truly inspiring. Seeing them take on leadership roles and make an impact throughout the country is a rewarding experience.
“I am part of a tight-knit group of women who truly function as a team. We support and help each other in every way. Sarah Lindsay, the national Panhellenic volunteer coordinator (NPVC) is an exceptional leader and working with her is a lot of fun. I have the opportunity to collaborate with collegiate women including the vice president of community relations (VPCR) and the president of the collegiate chapter. My role encompasses all aspects of Panhellenic, including recruitment rules and bylaw reviews. It’s a specialized position as we only focus on Panhellenic-related matters.”
Mary adds, “The position allows me to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the different sororities work together. It offers a unique perspective, as most people do not get the opportunity to see the inner workings of sororities from this angle and it’s cool.”
My role encompasses all aspects of Panhellenic, including recruitment rules and bylaw reviews. It’s a specialized position as we only focus on Panhellenic-related matters.”
Mary adds, “The position allows me to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the different sororities work together.It offers a unique perspective, as most people do not get the opportunity to see the inner workings of sororities from this angle and it’s cool.”
What is your most memorable experience as a volunteer?
“It is difficult to choose just one highlight from my experiences, but if I had to, it would be witnessing the women I have directly worked with being named finalists for the Sarah Ida Shaw Award. Seeing accomplished women receive recognition for their achievements is truly inspiring, particularly when I have had the opportunity to watch them grow and advance in their leadership positions within Tri Delta.”
Any advice for Tri Deltas who are thinking about volunteering?
“Don’t hesitate. Just take the leap! You will be amazed at the personal growth, leadership development, and impact you can make by becoming a part of Tri Delta. The bond of friendship and connection within Tri Delta is truly unique and lifelong. I wish more people would understand the significance and value of this opportunity.”