Celebrating 70 Years of Alpha Phi Foundation

February 13th, 2026 by Katie Gates in Press Release

Celebrating 70 Years of Alpha Phi Foundation

Every day leading up to our birthday on April 15, we will be sharing:
Major Milestones: From the first grants to the evolution of the Heart to Heart Grant.
Impactful Women: The visionaries who led the way and those who continue to carry the torch.
Moments of Impact: How your generosity has changed lives over seven decades.
We aren’t just celebrating a date on a calendar; we are celebrating 70 years of sisters helping sisters and a legacy of leading with our hearts.

 

Follow along daily as we count down to our 70th Birthday!

February

  • Alpha Phi Has Heart: 1946 Adoption of Cardiac Aid

    While our Foundation was officially incorporated in 1956, the spark was lit years earlier. Take a look at this page from the January 1947 Alpha Phi Quarterly.
    Following WWII, Alpha Phis gathered in Quebec to decide on a brand new peacetime philanthropy. The result? Cardiac Aid. Our sisters saw a “bleak outlook” for children suffering from rheumatic fever and decided to “bridge the gulf” between ignorance and life-saving care.

  • Helen Crowder Weisser: First Cardiac Aid Fund Chair

    Following the adoption of Cardiac Aid as our focus in 1946, the Cardiac Aid Fund found a powerhouse leader in Helen Crowder Weisser (Beta Epsilon-Arizona).
    The Tenure: Beginning in 1958, Helen served as the fund’s chairman for an incredible 18 years.
    The Growth: Under her visionary leadership, Alpha Phi’s support for both local and national heart projects didn’t just continue—it expanded significantly.
    The Partnership: During her time at the helm, our ties with the American Heart Association (AHA) grew so strong that by 1964, the AHA president personally commended our sisters, stating that “Heart Associations everywhere owe you a sincere thank you”.
    Helen’s nearly two-decade commitment reminds us that the Foundation’s impact is built on the steady, passionate leadership of our sisters. Because of her, we transitioned from a new philanthropy to a nationally recognized force for heart health.

  • Foundation Recognized by the American Heart Association

    A Trailblazing Legacy
    Long before heart health was a global conversation, Alpha Phis were on the ground, driving research and education forward.
    Our impact was so significant that it commanded national attention:
    Earning National Respect: Throughout the ’60s and ’70s, the Foundation was regularly recognized as one of the greatest contributors to researching heart disease.
    High Praise: In 1964, our members received a “sincere thank you” from the president of the American Heart Association for our relentless efforts.
    Award-Winning Service: From the 1966 Convention to special honors in 1973, Alpha Phi was repeatedly celebrated for “outstanding service in advancing the heart program.”
    Standing on Our Own
    While these historical accolades show how far our reach extended, they also tell the story of Alpha Phi’s independent strength. We didn’t just support the cause; we led it. Today, we continue that tradition by standing tall as a powerhouse for women’s heart health, funded by sisters, for the world.

  • First Foundation Scholarships Awarded in 1959

    A Legacy of Academic Excellence
    In 1959, the Foundation reached a historic milestone by awarding scholarships to 13 Alpha Phis. This initiative transformed our mission, making the encouragement of scholastic achievement a primary endeavor that continues to thrive today.

  • Doris Corbett: A Cornerstone of Alpha Phi Foundation

    A Lifetime of Devotion
    Doris Corbett (Beta-Northwestern) wasn’t just a member; she was a cornerstone of our organization during a period of massive growth.
    The Leader: Hired as the Fraternity’s Secretary-Treasurer in 1946, she served with distinction until her retirement in 1964.
    The Visionary: Doris is credited with being instrumental in the official establishment of the Alpha Phi Foundation in 1956.
    A Lasting Legacy: She remained a devoted Alpha Phi until she entered the Silent Chapter in 1997.
    Honoring Her Today
    Doris believed deeply in the potential of our sisters. To honor her incredible service, a fully-endowed scholarship is awarded annually in her name, ensuring her legacy of support continues to impact Alpha Phis every single year.

  • First National Wear Red Day: An Origin Story

    From the Foundation to the White House
    At the time, our current Foundation Board Chair, Rebecca Andrew Zanatta, was serving as the Executive Director. Because of Alpha Phi’s long-standing leadership in women’s heart health, she was invited to a prestigious celebration at the White House hosted by President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush.
    National Recognition: This invitation recognized Alpha Phi as a key voice in the fight against heart disease long before “Go Red” became a household term.
    Continuing the Legacy: Standing in the East Room of the White House, it was clear that the mission started by our sisters in 1946 had grown into a movement with national impact.
    Whether we are leading from the Board room or the White House, Alpha Phis have always been at the forefront of advocacy. We are so proud of our leaders who continue to represent our “heart” on the biggest stages!

  • Jen Verkamp: The HEART of Heart to Heart

    Meet Jen Verkamp (Beta Omega-Kent State).
    Jen serves as the Chair of the Heart to Heart Advisory Council. When she isn’t leading our cardiac grant efforts, she serves her community as an outpatient oncology infusion nurse in Southwest Indiana.
    Jen shares that serving on the Council has been incredibly rewarding: “Reviewing innovative grant applications, hearing from passionate researchers, and recommending a deserving grant recipient to the Foundation Board of Directors has been a fascinating process.”
    The Power of the Council
    The Heart to Heart Advisory Council isn’t just about reviewing paperwork; it’s about a lifelong bond and professional collaboration. Jen highlights that her experience is magnified by working alongside sisters who are experts in:
    Cardiology and Public Health
    Healthcare Informatics
    Research and Administration
    Jen’s dedication reminds us why we celebrate this 70-year milestone. As she puts it, Alpha Phi “challenged me to grow as a leader, increased my self confidence,” and provided a place to call home.

     

  • Jasman Kaur: A Full Circle Story

    Today, we’re highlighting a sister whose journey perfectly illustrates the lifelong impact of our Foundation: Jasman Kaur (Epsilon Rho-UC Davis).
    The Power of the Alpha Phi Network
    Jasman’s story is a beautiful example of how the Foundation supports our sisters from their first year of membership into their professional careers:
    Starting Strong: Jasman began her journey as Director of Philanthropy during her first year at UC Davis.
    Hands-On Research: Alongside sister Michelle Polen, Jasman interned with 2019 Heart to Heart Grant recipient Dr. Bryn Mumma at UC Davis Health. Together, they helped assess sex-specific differences in testing to more efficiently diagnose heart attacks in women.
    Giving Back: Today, Jasman has come full circle, serving as a Heart to Heart Grant Medical Reader (2024, 2025) to help select the next generation of life-saving researchers.
    As Jasman says, “It allows me to give back and I think that’s a wonderful thing to be a part of.”
    Investing in Your Journey 
    Jasman is also a three-time Alpha Phi Foundation Scholarship recipient (2022, 2023, 2024). This support has empowered her to grow as a leader and a healthcare professional.

     

  • The Evolution of the Alpha Phi Red Dress Pin

    Following her historic visit to the White House for the first National Wear Red Day in 2004, our current Board Chair (and then-Executive Director) Rebecca Andrew Zanatta (Beta Rho-Washington State) returned with a vision.
    From the White House to Your Lapel
    Rebecca recalls the moment the idea took flight:
    “I collected several other organizations’ red dress pins during that event at the White House and came back with the idea for our own Red Dress pin! I conferred with Susan Zabriskie and our creative agency… and the rest is history.”
    What started as a collection of pins from a White House event evolved into Alpha Phi’s own signature icon. Today, the Red Dress pin is synonymous with Alpha Phi and our unwavering support for women’s heart health. It serves as a daily reminder of our commitment to advocacy, research, and each other.

  • Shana Goss Smith

     

    Today, we celebrate Shana Goss Smith (Chi-Montana), a sister whose enduring commitment to service exemplifies the heart of our mission.
    Shana currently serves on both the Alpha Phi Foundation Board of Directors and the Heart to Heart Advisory Council. Her dedication is rooted in a deep sense of gratitude for the sisters who came before her: “There were women before me that paved the way for the opportunities that I had in college and in my volunteer world with Alpha Phi. It’s now my responsibility to give back to the organization & support the goals of Alpha Phi Foundation.”
    A Deep Connection to Heart and Scholarship
    Shana’s work with the Heart to Heart Advisory Council directly impacts the future of women’s cardiovascular health, helping to guide the Foundation’s signature grant program. Simultaneously, her leadership on the Board of Directors ensures that the Foundation continues to provide the same life-changing scholarship and leadership opportunities she values so highly.
    Her journey reminds us that the Foundation is built on a cycle of generosity: we receive from those who paved the way, and we give back to light the path for the sisters following in our footsteps.

  • Lollipop Sales

     

    Happy Valentine’s Day! Today is all about love, and in Alpha Phi, our love for our mission has often come with a side of something sweet.
    As we continue our 70-day countdown to the Alpha Phi Foundation’s 70th Birthday, we’re throwing it back to a classic chapter tradition: Lollipop Sales. A “Sweet” History of Philanthropy. For decades, Alpha Phis across the country have turned simple sweets into significant support for women’s heart health.
    The “Lollipop” Legacy: Long before galas, sports tournaments, and digital giving, sisters sold lollipops on campus to raise “Cardiac Aid” funds. It was a simple, grassroots way to spark a conversation about heart health while sharing a bit of joy.
    From Treats to Triumphs: These small sales were the building blocks of the Foundation we know today. They proved that when sisters work together—one lollipop at a time—we can fund major medical breakthroughs.
    While our fundraising has evolved into high-tech campaigns and “Red Dress” events, that same spirit of community and “sweet” sisterhood remains at the core of everything we do.

  • Dr. Venice Ng Williams

     

    Today, we are spotlighting a sister whose career is a masterclass in using research to create real-world change: Dr. Venice Ng Williams (Beta Theta–British Columbia).
    Dr. Williams is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado and a mixed-methods prevention researcher focused on improving health systems and child welfare policy through cross-sector collaboration. From evaluating systems-change interventions with Urban Indian health centers to developing collegiate tobacco control policies, Venice’s work spans the full spectrum of public health. For her, the foundation for this life-saving work began in our sisterhood: “Through Alpha Phi, I saw a purpose greater than myself. It is my motivation for doing good in the world by researching and implementing ways to improve maternal and child health among the families experiencing the greatest adversities.”
    Expert Guidance for Heart to Heart
    Today, Venice brings that same high-level expertise to the Foundation as a member of the Heart to Heart Advisory Council. Her ability to evaluate complex systems ensures that our cardiac grants are awarded to researchers who are truly moving the needle for women’s health.

  • Leadership Enrichment for Women

     

    Happy Presidents’ Day! Today, as we continue our 70-day countdown to the Alpha Phi Foundation’s 70th Birthday, we are saluting the visionary leaders within our own sisterhood.
    From Chapter Presidents managing campus operations to Alumnae Community Presidents fostering lifelong bonds, Alpha Phi leaders are the heartbeat of our organization.
    Investing in Leadership
    Leadership doesn’t just happen; it is nurtured. For 70 years, the Alpha Phi Foundation has been the proud engine behind the programming that transforms a sister into a leader:
    The Skills: Whether it’s navigating complex group dynamics, budgeting for a chapter, or public speaking, our presidents learn by doing.
    The Funding: Through Foundation-funded initiatives like the Alpha Phi Leadership Institute, Leadership Conference, the Alumnae Consortium, and specialized leadership workshops, we ensure our sisters have the tools to lead with confidence.
    The Impact: The leadership skills honed in the chapter room carry our sisters into boardrooms, hospitals, and communities long after graduation.
    Today, we celebrate every sister who has stepped up to the gavel. You aren’t just leading a chapter; you are building the foundation for a lifetime of influence.

  • First Red Dress Gala

    Today, we are celebrating a moment that transformed how we gather and give: the very first Red Dress Gala.
    2004: A Vision in Red
    While Alpha Phi has been educating women on the dangers of heart disease for over 70 years, a new chapter in our story began at the 2004 Convention. It was here that we held the first-ever Red Dress Gala, a stunning event that concluded the convention with a powerful sea of sisters and guests all dressed in red to support cardiac care.
    A Powerful Statement: The sight of hundreds of women united in red made an immediate impact, proving how visually and emotionally powerful our mission could be.
    A Catalyst for Change: Past International President Crista Cate Vasina noted at the time that while Alpha Phi had led this charge for decades, the “mainstream” was finally picking up the message—and it was time for our chapters to lead that conversation locally.
    Our Signature Event: What started as a single highlight at Convention has since blossomed into Alpha Phi’s signature fundraising event, held by chapters across North America to raise millions of dollars for women’s heart health.

  • First Heart to Heart Grant

    Today, we are looking back at the beginning of our signature grant program: the Heart to Heart Grant.
    1993: A Milestone for Women’s Health
    While Alpha Phi had been supporting cardiac aid for decades, 1993 marked a significant shift in how we funded research. This was the year the very first Heart to Heart Grant was awarded.
    The Inaugural Recipient: The first grant was awarded to University Hospitals of Cleveland for their work in Women’s Cardiovascular Health.
    A Growing Legacy: Since that first award in 1993, the Heart to Heart Grant has become the cornerstone of our Women’s Heart Health Program.
    Direct Impact: This program allows Alpha Phi to fund pioneering research and educational programs that specifically address the unique ways heart disease affects women.

  • All Past Heart to Heart Grant Recipients

    We are taking a moment to reflect on the incredible breadth of research and programming this grant has made possible.
    Since the first grant was awarded in 1993, the Alpha Phi Foundation has remained committed to funding projects that sit at the forefront of women’s cardiovascular health. From grassroots community education to high-level genomic research, our past recipients represent the very best in cardiac innovation.
    Explore the Full History
    With over 30 years of grant history, there is so much to discover about the lives changed by Alpha Phi’s generosity. We invite you to review the full list of our past recipients and see how far we’ve come: https://aphifdn.org/46R0UHl
    A Glimpse into the Impact
    Over the years, your support has funded diverse and life-saving initiatives across North America:
    Predictive Research: In 2016, the University of Louisville Foundation received $100,000 to evaluate if specific biomarkers can predict heart disease.
    Maternal Health: The Memorial Hermann Foundation used a $100,000 grant in 2014 to establish the first national registry for identifying risk factors of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), a life-threatening disease affecting women during or after pregnancy.
    Personalized Medicine: In 2015, Geisinger Health System utilized their $100,000 grant to bridge the gap between genetic determinants and preventable lifestyle factors.
    Community Empowerment: In 2013, Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare Foundation used their funding to train 600 women and girls in life-saving CPR.
    Targeted Diagnostics: The University of Washington Division of Cardiology (2012) used their grant to study gender-related differences in atherosclerosis.

  • 2026 Heart to Heart Grant Finalists

    We are thrilled to celebrate the future of women’s cardiovascular health by announcing the finalists for our 33rd annual Heart to Heart Grant.
    This year was truly historic, as we received a record-breaking 87 applications from institutions across the country. Our finalists represent those whose projects most closely align with our mission to invest in pioneering research and educational programs.
    We are deeply grateful to our volunteer Medical Readers and the Heart to Heart Grant Advisory Council for their expert guidance in selecting this year’s top contenders.
    Meet the 2026 Finalists
    We are amazed by the innovative work these seven institutions are doing to advance cardiac care for women:
    Brigham and Women’s / Mass General Health Care Center: AI Driven Mammographic Screening for Cardiovascular Risk Prediction in Women
    Luke’s House Clinic: Expanding Early Detection and Health Education for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Among Underserved Women in Greater New Orleans
    Mass General Brigham: Menopause Related Hot Flashes and Cardiovascular Health: The Role of Endothelial Inflammation
    UAB – The University of Alabama at Birmingham: Postpartum Heart: Alabama Womb2 Heart Solution – A Randomized Controlled Trial
    University of Delaware: Time Restricted Eating Among Emerging Adult Women: A Single-Armed Mechanistic Clinical Trial
    UF Health Jacksonville: Prime of Your Life (POYL): A Sustainable Community Model for Women’s Heart Health Education
    University of Iowa: It’s Not Your Fault: Paternal Mechanisms of High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy and Long-Term Women’s Heart Disease
    These projects range from cutting-edge AI diagnostics to community-based education and maternal health research. Each one represents a vital step forward in understanding and treating the #1 killer of women.
    Read the full detailed release here: https://bit.ly/40jXrxc

  • Ashlyn Lowder

    Today, we are highlighting the vital role of our Medical Readers. These sisters are medical professionals with backgrounds spanning both research and clinical work. They review and evaluate every Heart to Heart Grant application, ensuring that your donations fund the most rigorous and impactful research.
    Ashlyn Lowder (Theta Nu-Appalachian State), a 2026 Medical Reader and Physician Assistant in a Cardiovascular ICU, shared her powerful perspective on why this work matters so much: “Reading through the submissions gave me a powerful reminder of how many individuals and organizations are working tirelessly to improve cardiovascular care… As a Physician Assistant that works in the Cardiovascular ICU, I care for critically ill patients facing complex cardiac conditions every day. I see firsthand the devastating impact that cardiovascular disease can have on individuals and families, but I also witness the incredible difference that research, education, early intervention, and compassionate care can make. Being able to contribute my clinical perspective to the grant review process felt like a meaningful extension of the work I do at the bedside.”
    The Heart of Our Process
    By bridging the gap between clinical practice and philanthropic investment, Medical Readers help Alpha Phi Foundation select finalists—like the seven institutions announced for 2026—who are truly moving the needle in women’s cardiac health. Following this peer review, top-scoring finalists participate in interviews with our Heart to Heart Advisory Council before a final recipient is selected by a majority vote.
    We are so grateful for sisters who bring their “white coat” expertise back to Alpha Phi to help us lead with heart.

  • Susan Stone

    As we continue our 70th Birthday celebratory countdown, we are celebrating a sister who perfectly blends professional excellence with an unwavering commitment to Alpha Phi: Susan Stone (Zeta Nu-Texas Christian).
    Susan is a Certified Nurse-Midwife at UT Physicians in Houston, where she provides expert, compassionate care to women throughout every stage of life and her career is a testament to the power of healthcare professionals who lead with heart.
    A Dedication to the Mission
    Susan’s impact on Alpha Phi Foundation spans decades and distances. A true “triple threat” volunteer, she has consistently given her time, talent, and treasure to move our mission forward:
    Expert Guidance: Susan serves as a Foundation Medical Reader, lending her clinical expertise to help evaluate and select the Heart to Heart Grant recipients who are changing the future of women’s cardiac care.
    Local Leadership: Currently, Susan serves as the President of the Houston Alpha Phi Alumnae Community, an extraordinary and vibrant chapter. Under her leadership, Houston sisters continue to foster lifelong bonds and support our philanthropic goals.
    Alumnae Commitment: Throughout her journey, she has been involved in numerous alumnae chapters, proving that the Alpha Phi experience only gets richer after graduation.

  • First Heart to Heart Community Grant

    As we near the end of Heart Health Month, we are looking back at a transformative moment in the history of Alpha Phi Foundation’s commitment to cardiac care.
    For three decades, the Heart to Heart Grant was a prestigious award granted to institutions with the purpose of furthering clinical research. But as the landscape of women’s health evolved, so did we.
    In 2024, Alpha Phi Foundation expanded the reach of its signature Heart to Heart Grant by adding a community education award alongside its clinical research grant. This evolution allows the Foundation to support grassroots educational endeavors that empower communities with life-saving heart health knowledge and resources.
    The Inaugural Recipient: The first grant was awarded to the University of Missouri for the Missouri CARES Heart Squad.
    The Mission: This pioneering program embarked on a mission to increase the rates of bystander CPR and AED usage across the state.
    Focusing on Women: Crucially, the program focused on the utilization of female training manikins—addressing the specific barriers to providing life-saving care to women in cardiac arrest.
    A Growing Legacy: Since that first award in 1993, the Heart to Heart Grant has become the cornerstone of our Women’s Heart Health Program, funding over 30 years of breakthroughs, now including a vital community education endeavor.

  • Colleen Sirhal

     

    As we celebrate Alpha Phi Foundation’s 70th birthday, we are spotlighting a leader who has seen the impact of our mission from every angle: Colleen Sirhal (Theta–Michigan).
    Colleen’s dedication to women’s cardiovascular health is rooted in her early professional career as a cardiac nurse. During her time at the bedside, she recognized a critical reality: women experience cardiovascular health and its effects vastly differently than men. This firsthand experience transformed a professional specialty into a lifelong passion for advocacy.
    As a former Chair of the Heart to Heart Advisory Council and Foundation Board Member, Colleen has played a pivotal role in steering our commitment to cardiac care. Today, she continues to serve the mission as a Medical Reader and trusted advisor, utilizing her clinical background to evaluate the next generation of life-saving grants.
    “Women’s heart health is top of mind and Alpha Phi Foundation is dedicated to being part of the solution. We are building the future of how we treat women and cardiac disease.”
    Expanding the Mission
    During Colleen’s tenure and beyond, Alpha Phi Foundation has continued to evolve to meet the needs of women today. In 2024, the Foundation expanded the reach of its signature Heart to Heart Grant by adding a community education award alongside its clinical research grant. This evolution allows the Foundation to support grassroots educational endeavors that empower communities with life-saving heart health knowledge and resources.

  • 2024 Red Dress Impact Celebration

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    As we continue our 70-day birthday countdown, we are looking back at a night that left us absolutely speechless: the Red Dress Impact Celebration Dinner at Convention 2024.
    This special evening was dedicated to celebrating three decades of the Heart to Heart Grant and the incredible sisters who have turned Alpha Phi’s mission into life-saving action. To mark the milestone, Alpha Phi Foundation issued a bold challenge to those in the room: help us raise funds to ensure the next 30 years of cardiac innovation are even more impactful.
    Expecting a Spark, Finding a Wildfire
    The Foundation approached the challenge with hope but also caution, setting a realistic goal for the evening: $25,000. What happened next was a testament to the power of our sisterhood:
    The Response: As the sponataneous stories of impact were shared, the room ignited with generosity.
    The Result: By the end of the night, we hadn’t just met the goal—we shattered it.
    The Impact: Sisters and guests raised an incredible $115,000 in a single evening!
    This surge of support proved that when Alpha Phis see a need, they don’t just show up—they lead the way. These funds are already at work, supporting both the clinical research and the new community education endeavors that define the modern Heart to Heart Grant.

     

  • Announcing the 2026-2028 Foundation Board of Directors

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    We are honored to introduce the leaders who will guide Alpha Phi Foundation into the next biennium.
    We are thrilled to announce Janis Coughlin-Piester (Theta Kappa-Rochester) as our incoming Board Chair. Janis brings vibrant enthusiasm, a wealth of professional expertise and a deep love for Alpha Phi to this role. She succeeds Rebecca Andrew Zanatta (Beta Rho-Washington State), whose visionary leadership over the past four years has reached unprecedented heights in supporting our sisterhood. We are grateful that Rebecca will continue to serve as a Director to ensure a seamless transition.
    A warm welcome to our newest Board members, who bring incredible professional depth to our mission:
    • Lisa Dahl Dwyer (Tau-Oregon): A seasoned non-profit executive and advocate for early childhood education and health.
    • Cathleen Marine (Zeta Theta-Tufts): A retired finance and insurance executive with extensive experience in non-profit board governance.
    The full 2026-2028 Board will be officially installed this June at Alpha Phi’s 75th Biennial Convention in Tucson.
    Learn more about our new leaders and the full board slate here: https://aphifdn.org/4019cZv
    Please join us in congratulating the 2026-2028 Alpha Phi Foundation Board of Directors as entrusted stewards of our mission!

  • Foundation Branding Evolution

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Today, we are honoring our roots by sharing the original Foundation logo, while sharing the symbolism behind the fresh and festive visual identity we’ve been using in our celebratory collateral. Check out our updated Facebook profile and cover photos to see our new “Vibrant Legacy” branding in action.
    This design is a purposeful blending of Alpha Phi Foundation’s enduring history and its unwavering commitment to the future, anchored by the tagline: “Rooted in Heritage. A Vibrant Future in Bloom.” Here is the meaning behind the new elements:
    The Peony: A 70-year icon representing honor and prosperity. We specifically chose a coral-colored peony to symbolize excitement and new adventures.
    Confident Coral: This bright, warm color exudes optimism, joy, and the energetic spark of our mission.
    Radiant Silver: Chosen for our 70th birthday, this color symbolizes enduring radiance and resilience.
    Flourishing Impact: Our floral iconography seamlessly blends these new elements with Alpha Phi’s core symbols—the Lily of the Valley and the Forget-Me-Not—to illustrate the flourishing impact of our mission.
    We are so excited to step into this milestone with you as we celebrate 70 years of vision and vitality!

     

     

  • 70 Years of YOU!

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    70 Years of YOU!
    As we close out Heart Health Month, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for the thousands of sisters who have fueled our mission for the past seven decades. Alpha Phi Foundation would not exist without you.
    From the high-energy teeter-totter-a-thons of the past to today’s iconic Red Dress Galas, Alpha Phifas, Mac & Phis, and even those nostalgic lollipop sales—your dedication to fundraising has been the lifeblood of our organization.
    Whether it was a collegiate chapter hosting a campus event or an alumnae community coordinating a local fundraiser, your time, talent, and treasure have turned our mission into a reality. Because of these grassroots efforts, we have been able to fund pioneering clinical research and life-saving community education for generations.
    Thank you for being the reason we are still here, still growing, and still saving lives 70 years after our founding

March

  • Georgia Neese Clark Gray

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Welcome to March! As we begin Women’s History Month, our 70-day birthday countdown shifts its focus to the trailblazing sisters who have shaped Alpha Phi Foundation’s success and left an indelible mark on the world.
    Today, we are honored to feature a woman who truly understood the value of “time, talent, and treasure”: Georgia Neese Clark Gray (Upsilon-Washburn).
    A National Trailblazer
    Georgia’s name is etched in American history. In 1949, she was appointed by President Harry S. Truman as the first woman Treasurer of the United States. For years, her signature appeared on all U.S. currency, serving as a daily reminder of women’s growing influence in the highest levels of government and finance.
    Strengthening Our Foundation
    Despite her demanding national roles, Georgia remained deeply committed to her sisterhood. She brought her unmatched financial expertise back to Alpha Phi, serving as the Foundation Board Treasurer for many years.

  • Mabel Cowlishaw Siggins

    As we continue our celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting a sister whose spirit of generosity created a ripple effect that we still feel today: Mabel Cowlishaw Siggins (Beta Gamma-Colorado).

    Mabel was described by her sisters as “enthusiastic, loyal, generous, and actively working” for Alpha Phi in chapters across the country. Beyond her deep commitment to the sisterhood, she was passionately involved in early cardiac aid projects, long before the Foundation became the philanthropic powerhouse it is today.

    When Mabel passed away, a scholarship fund was established in her memory to serve two purposes: to help college girls pursue their dreams and to honor the name and memory of a cherished sister. Decades later, the Mabel Cowlishaw Siggins Undergraduate Scholarship Fund remains a testament to her impact, continuing to invest in the education of sisters everywhere.

    Mabel’s life is a perfect example of what it means to be “Rooted in Heritage.” She laid the groundwork so that we could cultivate a “Vibrant Future in Bloom” for every Alpha Phi.

  • Helen Bradford

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    As we continue celebrating Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting a program that defines what it means to be Alpha Phis: sisters for life. Today, we are sharing the story of the Forget Me Not Fund and its founder, Helen Bradford (Beta Beta–Michigan State).

    In 1979, Helen Bradford provided $3,000 in seed money to establish a fund dedicated to alumnae facing severe, unforeseeable misfortunes. She understood that life is unpredictable, and that our sisterhood is strongest when we are there for one another during the most difficult times.

    The Gift of Support
    Since its inception, the Forget Me Not Fund has provided a critical safety net for hundreds of sisters. It exemplifies our commitment to life-long support, offering assistance to Alpha Phis facing emergency financial crises. Helen’s legacy reminds us that while we are “Rooted in Heritage,” our true impact is how we show up for each other when it matters most. These grants offer sisters in need the greatest gift of all: the knowledge that their sisters care and are always there to help.

    Alpha Phi Foundation also awards an annual scholarship named in Helen’s honor.

    Photo of The Feronian Literary Society, 1920 – the first women’s society at Michigan State University, officially became the Beta Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi International Fraternity February 17, 1922. Courtesy of Michigan State University. The Wolverine (East Lansing, MI: Michigan Agricultural College. 1920). 238, University Archives and Historical Collections.

  • Adding Leadership & Educational Programming to Funding Priorities

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Why Alpha Phi Wednesday: Pioneers in leadership development. As we celebrate our 70th birthday, we’re taking a look back at the late 1980s—a pivotal time when Alpha Phi Foundation transformed from a purely philanthropic arm into a powerhouse for leadership education.

    In the mid-80s, the Foundation began to sponsor Fraternity programs with an intentional focus on educational programming that empowered women to lead with confidence, safety, and heart.

    At the 1986 Convention, the Foundation announced two trailblazing programs that addressed the holistic needs of our members:

    • The Aware Bear Program: Created with the Rocky Mountain Heart Research Institute to help children develop heart-healthy lifestyles early on.
    • RESPOND: A Forum for Supportive Action: Developed with the Mental Health Association of Dallas County, this program provided vital education on campus safety, covering everything from harassment and hazing to personal well-being.

    By the late 80s, we knew our collegiate officers needed a space to grow, connect, and learn together. In 1989, we launched our first regional Leadership Conferences—often described as “mini-Conventions.” Through workshops, role-playing, and discussion groups, these conferences helped collegiate chapters flourish and ensured our leaders were equipped for the challenges of their roles.

    From the “mini-Conventions” of 1989 to the training programs of today, Alpha Phi Foundation has remained dedicated to your personal and professional growth. We are proud to be “Rooted in Heritage,” but even more excited to support our vibrant sisterhood continue to bloom.

  • Alpha Phi Foundation Phonathon

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    As we celebrate our 70th birthday, we’re reflecting on the bold initiatives that proved Alpha Phi Foundation is truly “Rooted in Heritage.” In the late 1980s, even during a period of economic uncertainty, our Foundation didn’t just survive—we innovated.

    We took a pioneering leap that changed the landscape of Greek fundraising forever: The Alpha Phi Phonathon.

    Breaking New Ground
    In 1987, Alpha Phi Foundation made history as the first National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) group to launch a national phonathon as part of its annual fund drive. It was a massive, volunteer-powered effort:

    • 16 individual events across the country.
    • 350+ dedicated volunteers.
    • 10,000+ Alpha Phi sisters contacted.

    It wasn’t just about raising funds—though that success was undeniable! It was about connection. These calls informed our alumnae about the critical work being done to support scholarships, heart health research, the Forget Me Not Fund, and our undergraduate emergency aid programs.

    A Legacy of Excellence
    Our savvy financial management and grassroots dedication paid off in a big way. By 1996, Alpha Phi Foundation ranked third nationally among all women’s fraternity foundations for its annual fund, and fourth in overall total giving. This historic momentum laid the groundwork for the powerful, widespread support we see in our sisterhood today.

    A History of “Firsts”
    We’ve always been a group that isn’t afraid to try something new, whether it’s the first national phonathon or the latest in innovative women’s heart health research. We are proud to build upon the “Vibrant Legacy” created by those trailblazing volunteers!

  • Martha Watkins Mast

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    As we continue celebrating Women’s History Month, we are honoring a leader who laid the vital groundwork for our modern-day mission: Martha Watkins Mast (Beta Nu–Duke).

    Martha served as Foundation Chair from 1976 to 1988, a pivotal era defined by a transformative expansion of our philanthropic reach. Martha understood that to truly make an impact, we needed to grow our community of support. Under her guidance, the Foundation saw a massive surge in donorship, cultivating a culture of giving that allowed our organization to evolve into the philanthropic leader it is today.

    In recognition of her extraordinary service, Martha received the Ivy Vine Award in 1988—Alpha Phi’s most prestigious honor. Even years later, at our 40th-anniversary celebration in 1996, she was again honored for the guidance she provided as a “trailblazer” for our organization.

    First an award recipient, Martha’s continuing legacy has been iconized with an award now given in her name. Martha’s commitment to innovation and heart continues to inspire us every single day through the Martha Watkins Mast Spirit of Philanthropy Award. This honor is presented to collegiate chapters that carry on her legacy by demonstrating exceptional creativity and innovation in their fundraising efforts.

    She continues to teach us that when we invite others to join our mission, we aren’t just raising funds—we are building a “vibrant future” for women everywhere.

    Martha Watkins Mast proved that with dedication and savvy leadership, we can build a foundation that supports generations. We are proud to be “Rooted in Heritage” because of leaders like her.

  • Establishing the Clara Bradley Burdette Society

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    As we look back on the history that makes Alpha Phi Foundation so special, we are celebrating a milestone from 1994: the establishment of the Clara Bradley Burdette Society.

    Named after one of our visionary founders, Clara Bradley Burdette, this society was created to recognize sisters whose commitment to our mission extends beyond their lifetime. Clara herself was a dedicated philanthropist, and her motto, “live a life of purpose,” serves as a guiding light for every member of this society.

    Why We Remember
    Clara is famously remembered for the quote: “As long as memory remains to me, I will remember Alpha Phi.” Those words remind us that the strength of our sisterhood tomorrow depends on the actions we take today. By making a planned gift to the Foundation, members of the Clara Bradley Burdette Society ensure that Alpha Phi will continue to empower women for generations to come.

    Join the Legacy
    When you choose to include Alpha Phi Foundation in your estate plans, you become part of this honored circle. Interested in leaving your mark? It’s never too early to plan your future gift!

    How to join: If you have included the Foundation in your estate plans or would like more information on how to do so, please visit alphaphifoundation.planmylegacy.org/ or email plannedgiving@alphaphifoundation.org.

    Your vision and vitality today builds the “Vibrant Future” we all share. Thank you to our legacy donors for ensuring our sisters will always be supported!

  • Celebrating International Women's Day

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Happy International Women’s Day!

    Today, we join the global celebration of women’s achievements, and we couldn’t be prouder of the “Vibrant Legacy” our sisters have built over the last 70 years.

    At the heart of Alpha Phi is a determination to empower our members to seek the highest ideals of womanhood. We don’t just talk about leadership; we invest in it. From our earliest days to our current goal of being the premier developer of women in the U.S. and Canada, Alpha Phi Foundation has been the engine behind this mission.

    Investing in the Future
    Through your generosity, the Foundation funds life-changing programs that help our sisters excel in an ever-changing global society:

    • Leadership Excellence: Programs like the Alpha Phi Leadership Institute (in collaboration with the Disney Institute) and the Leadership Fellows Program provide sisters with the tools to lead with confidence and vision.
    • Educational Support: We’ve awarded millions in scholarships—including merit and need-based aid—to ensure our sisters can pursue their academic dreams without limits.
    • Holistic Growth: Our programming has evolved to address every facet of a woman’s life, from health and well-being to professional preparation.
    • Rooted in Heritage: We stand on the shoulders of the trailblazing women who came before us—the “giants” who achieved the impossible so that we could flourish today.

    As we look toward a “Vibrant Future in Bloom,” we remain committed to advancing women’s lives through the power of philanthropy.

  • Heritage History Book Series

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    In 2022, Alpha Phi celebrated a monumental milestone: our 150th anniversary. To honor this sesquicentennial, Alpha Phi Foundation proudly funded the completion of a landmark heritage preservation project – a three-part history book series capturing the stories, member profiles, and milestones that have shaped our sisterhood since 1872.

    This project ensures that the “Vibrant Legacy” of our first 150 years is preserved for every generation of sisters to come. We are especially proud that the final two volumes were authored by our very own talented alumnae.

    • Volume I: Union Hand in Hand by Jenny Thompson (Alpha Lambda-Alumna Initiate) – Covering our founding through 1922.
    • Volume II: Alpha Phi Toujours by Nancy Owen Craig (Beta Chi-Bucknell) – Chronicling the years 1922–1972.
    • Volume III: Ivy and Forget-Me-Not by Jennifer Gromada (Gamma Rho-Penn State) – Documenting our most recent history from 1973–2022.

    By documenting our journey from a small circle of ten to a global sisterhood, we remain Rooted in Heritage while looking forward to a Vibrant Future in Bloom.

     

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