Rachelle’s collegiate journey with Tri Delta began at Washington State University. While earning her doctorate in Analytical Chemistry at Colorado State University, she reconnected with Tri Delta through the local alumnae chapter and by serving on the local house corporation for Theta Lambda chapter as treasurer and vice president. After graduate school, Rachelle returned to the Tri-Cities area, where she now works at Hanford—the nation’s largest nuclear waste cleanup site—contributing to its decades-long remediation mission. Despite her impressive work as a chemist, Rachelle jokes that she’ll happily let Google (or the movie Oppenheimer) explain the details of her job to avoid boring anyone!
Rachelle lives with her boyfriend and their cat, Minnie, and continues to support Tri Delta as a member of the housing improvement grant committee.
What made you decide to volunteer for Tri Delta?
“Someone asked me! At Circle Degree, an alumnae member connected with me about volunteer opportunities in Fort Collins, where I was about to live for graduate school. To my surprise, later that summer, the alumnae chapter president called. They picked me up and drove me to my first alumnae meeting, which just felt authentic, sisterly and kind, and I was hooked. Volunteering has been the best way to stay involved and form new friendships. I recognize I go through waves of life when I have more time to give than at other points in my life, and right now, I’m happy to be doing my part (even if it is small). I want to get more involved, including bringing back an alumnae chapter to the Tri-Cities, Washington area!”
What do you get most out of volunteering?
“Volunteering makes me feel good—knowing I am helping, contributing and supporting the legacy of Tri Delta for those going through it today. I’ve made so many great friends with people of all ages. I’ve been mentored, I’ve mentored others, and I truly treasure the relationships I’ve formed along the way. The people I meet and work with are the best part of it all.”
What is your most memorable experience as a volunteer?
“Attending Volunteer Leadership Conference was an incredible experience! I already loved volunteering, but being there and talking about the future of Tri Delta truly motivated me to help even more. It made me feel so connected, and I knew I wanted to stay involved and not lose that sense of purpose and sisterhood.”
What advice do you have for other Tri Deltas thinking about volunteering?
“Just do it—you’re missing out if you don’t get involved! If you’re even thinking about volunteering, reach out and ask about the responsibilities and time commitments—someone will help you connect to the perfect role! There’s always a way to match your skills, interests and availability to a volunteer opportunity. All it takes is the interest and willingness.”