Giving Time, Talent & Treasure: Two Outstanding Alpha Phis Who Continue to Make a Difference
Ten years ago at the NICF THE Foundations Seminar, two inspirational Alpha Phi alumnae were recognized for their commitment to the Greek community and range of exemplary philanthropy. Today, they continue to invest in advancing women’s lives by giving their time, talents and treasure to Alpha Phi Foundation.
In 2008, Susan Weiskittle Barrick (Beta Omicron—Bowling Green) received the NICF Outstanding Volunteer Award for her 15 years as an active Alpha Phi volunteer. Susan played an integral role as a lead fundraising volunteer for the Foundation’s “$10 Million By 2010” campaign. She successfully helped to build the Foundation’s “Heart of Gold Society,” which then included contributors of $5,000 annually or more, from three donors to 50 in less than two years. Her passion for building community within Alpha Phi alumnae was clear in her acceptance speech. “One measures one’s self against those who measure themselves against you,” said Barrick. “I could find no better people to measure myself against than these two people who have nominated me and other Alpha Phis that I know. It is an honor to be nominated by them, and it’s even more fun work with them.“
Today, we recognize Susan’s now 25 years of dedication to Alpha Phi Fraternity and Alpha Phi Foundation. Her leadership skills, unwavering confidence in Alpha Phis and heart of gold continue to fuel Alpha Phi Foundation fundraising initiatives.
That same evening, Alpha Phi’s Diane Spry Straker (Delta Alpha—East Carolina) was awarded the Outstanding Philanthropist Award, and was recognized for contributing the largest gift from a living individual in Alpha Phi Foundation’s history. As Alpha Phi Foundation was on the cusp of embarking on a $10M campaign, Diane made a transformational gift to Alpha Phi Foundation to inspire others to give. “With a big gift, you can really see the impact,” said Straker, “And, sometimes that gift provides the impetus for something or someone to do something even greater.”
Her connection to the fraternal ideals that are at work within Alpha Phi and shared among the Greek community, as well as her passion for developing strong leaders for the future, continue to drive her to invest in Alpha Phi. At the 2008 NIC Foundation Seminar Awards Dinner, Straker said, “I feel there are so many challenges that will face us in the future. We have to address them now, and the best way to do that is to recognize and train those leaders. Our legacy is not simply what we leave behind, but what we are able to help bring about in the future.”
Susan and Diane continue to lead with their hearts as they both volunteer with and give to Alpha Phi Foundation. Then, as now, these two outstanding Foundation supporters serve as role models to alumnae spanning generations. Their passion for leaving this organization better than they found it remains unflagging. And when asked, these two women still point to one reason, best summed up by Susan’s remarks ten years ago: “I have received much more than I have given.”
Giving to Alpha Phi Foundation is a personal commitment a donor makes, choosing to invest their time, talents and treasure in the future of our sisterhood and the overall advancement of women’s lives. Alpha Phi Learn how you can give back to Alpha Phi Foundation today!