Alpha Phi Foundation Welcomes New Team Members
We asked each of these women to share a little bit more about the journey to their new roles and their love for Alpha Phi.
Katie Gates (Beta Upsilon – Oregon State)
Marketing & Communications Manager
While in college I was the Director of Campus Engagement, Director of Events, and VP of Marketing. I currently serve as a Chapter Advisor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as well as Alumnae Engagement for the Beta Upsilon chapter at Oregon State. Go Beavs!
I actually came across the posting for this position while visiting the Foundation website for Red Dress Gala planning resources. It immediately seemed serendipitous and that I needed to apply. As soon as the interview process began, I felt right at home and that I was among old friends – the common bond of being an Alpha Phi truly is a very special thing. The evolution of the Foundation and its mission to create and cultivate empowered women through innovative leadership programming and scholarship is such a powerful movement to be a part of.
I encourage all alumnae to get involved with a local alumnae chapter or as a volunteer in any capacity. Since joining my chapter advisory board, and now my role with the Foundation, I truly feel revitalized and as though I have discovered my purpose and that is to serve as a mentor of these tremendous women. I am so proud to be an Alpha Phi!
Courtney Chaffin (Iota Gamma – University of the Pacific)
Digital Marketing Specialist
I always enjoyed the recruitment process and was the Vice President of Membership Recruitment for my chapter. I moved to Los Angeles after graduation and continued my love of recruitment by becoming the Recruitment Advisor at Loyola Marymount University.
It’s hard for me to pick just one favorite Alpha Phi memory! I would have to say living in the chapter house with my sisters was such an unforgettable experience. I still miss the late-night Taco Bell runs, Bachelorette Mondays, and endless laughter that came from our house. The friendships I made in Alpha Phi are truly lifelong and I’m still super close with many of my sisters today!
I was so excited when I heard about the Digital Marketing Specialist role for Alpha Phi Foundation. This role really allows my creativity and love of graphic design shine. I am honored to be a part of the Foundation because it’s mission to advance women’s lives through philanthropy is near and dear to my heart.
My advice is to remember that being an Alpha Phi is a lifelong journey. This organization is here for you throughout your college years and far beyond. It is comforting to know that no matter what you may be going through, you always have sisters to lean on for love and support. It’s not four years, it’s truly for life.
Ashley Welch (Theta Nu – Appalachian State)
Development Manager
While I was in college I was the New Member Educator and loved working with the new members to learn all about Alpha Phi! I am now the Chapter Advisor for the Eta Xi Chapter at UNC-Wilmington. I am also the CCA for Theta Nu-AppState and Theta Phi-Christopher Newport. I love continuing to work with women who love Alpha Phi!
My favorite collegiate memory was getting my big sister. I was handed a string and when I got to the end of the string, my BIG was holding the other end. She was and still is a great friend and support to me! So thankful for the many relationships I built when I joined Alpha Phi and still have very close relationships with many of them.
I have been searching for my purpose and passion over the past few years and when the Foundation posted these jobs I felt like I had finally found something I could do that I was passionate about. I am excited to continue to show value to our donors and also help grow my position with my passion for Alpha Phi and empowering women in leadership.
My advice for an Alpha Phi who is currently in college is that it isn’t just for 4 years! Being an Alpha Phi is lifelong and is far more than just an organization. Alpha Phi is loyalty, support, sisterhood for life, and love.
Abby Coogan (Delta Eta – Adrian College)
Chapter Giving Coordinator
After being initiated into Alpha Phi I couldn’t wait to contribute in as many ways as possible. From Director of Recruitment, Director of Community Service, and Panhellenic Delegate I always wanted to look for new ways to be involved!
My favorite collegiate memory was when I got my big. We didn’t know it was happening until we were there! It was such a fun surprise, and I was so excited to have a big who really made me feel at home from the start!
I am so excited for the opportunity to give back to an organization that has connected me with my closest friends and mentors. That really is what drew me to working for the foundation! I can’t wait to connect with all the chapters and help them reach their philanthropic goals!