Meet Meg Schmitt, a 2018 alumnae initiate from the University of Wisconsin, where she attended graduate school. Meg attended Loras College in Iowa, where she didn’t have the opportunity to experience Greek life as a collegian, making her initiation into Tri Delta all the more special. Meg is making an impact for women in STEM, currently running a research lab in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Colorado, Denver. An active member of the Denver alumnae chapter, she also serves as the Financial Specialist for emerging chapters. Meg lives in Denver with her husband, who is a professor at the university, and their two Dachshunds.
Fun fact
Meg has an impressive collection of over 1,400 cookbooks! She began collecting them during graduate school, turning Saturday morning dates into garage sale outings. Meg brings her scientific approach from the lab into the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes. As winter approaches, she’s especially excited to perfect her chicken pot pie. Her collection fills every spare bedroom, and she loves finding new additions at second-hand bookstores, thrift shops and estate sales.
What made you decide to volunteer for Tri Delta?
“Being part of a male-dominated field like STEM, growing up, it was important for me to find a space where I could embrace my passion for science and math without being overshadowed or having to navigate gender roles. I believe it’s essential for women to have the opportunity to surround themselves with a circle of other strong, dedicated women. College is a time to discover who you are and what you value, and being surrounded by women who model those values can be transformative. It warms my heart to be that role model and connect with college women on my campus and through my volunteer role, showing them the power of supportive women and spaces.”
What do you get most out of volunteering?
“I love my volunteer role as a financial specialist with emerging chapters! As someone who loves numbers and math, diving into budgets is a perfect fit for me. Our newest members are so excited and passionate about Tri Delta and getting involved. I love supporting these women and watching them grow, create their own Tri Delta identity, and become more independent with every passing year as they take on leadership roles. Helping younger women discover who they are and then absolutely crush it is the best feeling!”
What is your most memorable experience as a volunteer?
“Hands down – attending the Volunteer Leadership Conference. It’s such a gift to be able to gather in person. I love the training, meeting other volunteers, listening to inspiring talks, and experiencing true sisterhood. The conference exemplifies what Tri Delta is all about – supporting and honoring our volunteers. Tri Delta couldn’t exist without them, and it shows in the way we’re treated and valued. Tri Delta understands that today’s college women are tomorrow’s leaders and volunteers, and it’s important to build a strong foundation to support them and continue this legacy.”
What advice do you have for other Tri Deltas who are thinking about volunteering?
“I can sum it up in three words: We need you! Without volunteers, there is no Tri Delta.
You do not need to know everything to start because you’ll be supported at every level – from your chapter team, region and Executive Office. It’s ok not to know everything and use resources to find out. My message for future volunteers is to fill out the interest form! We won’t know you want to get involved if you’re not in the database!”