Gamma Phi Beta - University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lauren Greufe '12 Honored for outstanding Contribution to Panhellenic Community D uring recruitment, Lauren Greufe '12 felt nervous and excited at every chapter she visited; however, when she set foot into the Gamma Phi Beta house, she felt relaxed and at home. Lauren knew she made the correct choice in Pi Chapter on Preference Day, and as her college career continued, that decision was further cemented as the right one. Being a part of the Pi sisterhood meant being surrounded by women who continually encouraged and pushed Lauren to be the best version of herself. Lauren is earning her master's degree in medical anatomy at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and hopes to attend medical school in the future. She knows that the sisters surrounding her helped her down this path. "They stayed up late at night to study with me, they cheered me on, prayed with me when I was down, and urged me to get involved on campus," Lauren said. This summer, Lauren received an Honorable Mention for the Lillian Thompson Award at Gamma Phi Beta's International Convention. This award is given to a member who has provided outstanding contributions to the Panhellenic community. Lauren was amazed the chapter was sending an application for the award on her behalf. "I was incredibly honored and reminded of all the work that was done in an effort to transform the culture in the Greek community, and it was not done by me alone, but the entire team," Lauren said. Lauren served on the Panhellenic executive board for four years, as assistant vice president of recruitment for two years, and president for an additional two. "I have truly loved getting to work with the Panhellenic executive board, and I know that I would not be the same person today if it were not for the wonderful Greek community at UNL." She encourages undergraduates to truly get to know other students because the people you meet in college will be your friends for the rest of your life. "Gamma Phi Beta helped form me into the woman I am today by surrounding me with women that have continued to love, support, and encourage me no matter where I am at in life," Lauren expressed. In her time living in the chapter house, her favorite memories all include the enthusiasm and support when something great happened in another sister's life, "from engagement to getting into professional school, the support of Pi sisters are always around you," she said. Lauren lives in Omaha, Nebraska, and enjoys spending time with her friends, boyfriend, and five siblings. She enjoys going to the lake and water skiing, singing at church, and exercising. You can contact her at laurengreufe@yahoo.com. A Slice of Pi page 2 GFB A Shining Star for Gamma Phi Beta Alex Janvrin '14 recognized for Her Community Involvement O n the last day of recruitment, a Pi Chapter woman told Alex Janvrin '14 something she would never forget. "She told me that with my personality and abilities, there was no doubt I would be an asset to Gamma Phi Beta or any other sorority," Alex remembers. "However, what was different about Pi Chapter is that it would give back to me just as much as I would put into her. With the caliber of women in Pi Chapter, I would be pushed to be more and do more. Two years later, I can honestly say she was entirely correct." After just two years at UNL, Alex has involved herself with numerous campus and civic activities. While we wish we could list them all, some highlights include being a mentor for Nebraska Human Resources Institute, volunteering with the Study of the U.S. Institute, and teaching English at the county jail every week. Alex's heart for service was recognized this summer as the recipient of the Gamma Phi Beta Foundation Shining Star at National Convention. The Shining Star award recognizes Gamma Phi Beta collegians with outstanding volunteer service contributions in their community. "I had honestly forgotten about it, and since it was a national award, I really didn't think I would receive it, but it sure did put a smile on my face," Alex said. "I'm usually not one for public recognition, but to be acknowledged by women who have done a whole lot more living than me and who saw something special in what I've done really felt good." Alex credits her Gamma Phi Beta sisters for inspiring and encouraging her to give back. "I am finally surrounded by people that encourage my success and well-being. It has given me a network of women to rely on far past college, and more importantly, it has given me the confidence to stand up for myself and stand up for what I want. Pi Chapter has some pretty incredible members, and I am very proud to know some of them personally, including Cassie Irwin '13 and Meredith Hovis '13, current Pi chapter president. We were so different from each other, but we've learned so much in sharing all our stories, thoughts, and opinions." At UNL, Alex is pursuing an actuarial science and mathematics degree, but after graduation, she hopes to live abroad and possibly teach English. She can be reached at ajanvrin47@gmail.com. Pi Chapter members gathered for one last photoshoot before the end of the school year. GFB

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