Meet Nicole Ho Leech, Carnegie Mellon. Originally from Houston, Nicole pursued both her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Carnegie Mellon, majoring in mechanical engineering. Though she decided not to become an engineer, she now applies her academic background in her work as a management consultant for a global professional services company. There, she works with utility companies to implement more efficient business processes and ensure that changes are adopted successfully.
Today, Nicole lives in Oceanside, California, with her husband, whom she married in 2024, and their four-year-old hound mix, Stanley. Nicole is an avid reader, cook, and baker who discovered her love for bread-making during the pandemic and stuck with it. She enjoys experimenting with new recipes using ingredients from her husband’s garden. In their free time, Nicole, her husband and Stanley love exploring the outdoors and hiking together.
Nicole currently serves on the Crescent Fund committee and was previously part of the young alumnae giving committee. These volunteer roles fit her perfectly, as she is passionate about fundraising.
Fun Fact:
Nicole says that during recruitment, she spilled an entire plate of food at Tri Delta. “I was mortified, but they immediately helped me clean it up like it was no big deal. That moment made such a great impression on me, and I realized Tri Delta was a place I could be myself. I wasn’t nervous, and it just felt like home,” says Nicole. Tri Delta and her friendships are also very important to her, and she is proud that all but one of her bridesmaids at her wedding are Tri Deltas!
What made you decide to volunteer for Tri Delta?
“Carol Helmus reached out to me about the Crescent Fund committee, and I immediately said yes. I was in college when Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, and my parents’ home became a total loss after water damage. I applied for a Collegiate Crescent Fund grant and received financial support. I was a recipient of a scholarship as well. Saying yes was easy. It’s a great use of my time and a good way to stay connected to Tri Delta after I graduated.”
What do you get most out of volunteering?
“I love knowing that I’m helping other sisters in need through the Crescent Fund. Having personally experienced the impact it can have on someone’s life, I feel grateful to play a direct role in assisting sisters during challenging times. It’s especially fulfilling to know that even in challenging times, Tri Delta is there to offer support. What makes it even more special is that you don’t have to be a collegiate member to receive help—Tri Delta is there for you no matter your age. My parents admire Tri Delta as well. They love knowing that Tri Deltas care and that support extends far beyond the college years.”
What is your most memorable experience as a volunteer?
“When I first joined the Crescent Fund committee, I was nervous about volunteering, but the committee was so welcoming and helped me get adjusted. Helping out with Day of Giving, the pep rally and fundraising was such a memorable experience. I can’t wait to make even more memories as I continue to volunteer!”
What advice do you have for other Tri Deltas thinking about volunteering?
“If you think you don’t have the time, there are volunteer opportunities that don’t require a huge commitment, and Tri Delta meets you where you are. There have been times when I’ve been busy with work or my personal life, and every time that’s happened, I’ve been met with grace and encouraged to contribute what I can. If time is a concern, don’t stress—everyone understands and meets you where you are.”
Please consider making a donation to the Crescent Fund to support our sisters in need as they recover and rebuild from the devastating fires in Los Angeles.