Alpha Beta Chapter of Phi Mu at the University of Arkansas
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1039070
6 Phi Mu Fraternity To Practice Day by Day Love, Honor, Truth How the Salmon Family Supports Alpha Beta's Past and Future W hile the front doors to the Phi Mu Chap- ter House on Maple Street may have changed, the fond memories still come flooding back to Dona Salmon Boone '82, Lynn Thompson Salmon '84, and Martha Salmon Davis '87. From sitting on the front steps for a chat after class to catching the latest episodes of All My Children and One Life to Live, spending time in the Chapter House became augmented by the company of sisters. As a way to commemorate these experiences and cre- ate them for future members, the Salmon family con- tributed to the Our HΦΜE, Our Legacy campaign. "I feel that Alpha Beta has given each member a dif- ferent reason for why they would give back. It affects each person differently, but overall, being a member of Alpha Beta is a bonding of women with the same values and beliefs," said Martha. "Giving back is a way of sharing with others what this organization has done for them and how it has made an impact on them during their college years. It will be with them for the rest of their lives." For Dona, supporting Alpha Beta allowed a longtime dream of a new Chapter House to come to fruition. "It has been many years in the making, and I'm excited to say I had a hand in it," she said. "I would advise all my sisters to just give something and take ownership in this new chapter for Phi Mu. No amount is too small! It's not about how much you can give, rather it's how you can be involved in this exciting time for Alpha Beta." When Lynn saw her future cousins-in-law, Dona and Karen Salm- on Cline '84, and sister-in-law, Martha, marching across the lawn on Bid Day, she knew remaining connected to the sisterhood would become easier than ever. "Dona and Martha truly motivated me to get involved. I no longer live in Arkansas, but am excited to see, via social media, the photos of the beautiful Phi Mu Chapter House and the vibrant young ladies that are bringing new life to Phi Mu on the campus of my alma mater, the University of Arkansas," Lynn said. "I hope that our contribution is able to enrich their years spent in the house!" There is no replacement for living in the Alpha Beta Chapter House. "You always have someone to study with, laugh with, cry with, order pizza with, and just hang out with. I am so happy these young women again have the opportunity to spend time with their sisters and form bonds that time cannot erase," Lynn exclaimed. Dona agrees that despite having lost touch with many sisters over the years, this does not diminish the im- portance of these memories. "They always bring a smile to my face when I think of them at this season of my life. We have all gone our separate ways and lead busy lives, but this new house is the perfect opportunity for us all to come home and reconnect." Even the words of the Phi Mu creed echo in the back of each sister's memory. The ritual, tradition, and unique bond of Alpha Beta have all left an exceptional imprint on each member's life. "Alpha Beta has taught me to believe in myself and treasure friendships and the times we have together. It has taught me to love unconditionally and to give to those less fortunate. It has taught me that it is better to go through life with many helping you along the way than to do it alone," Martha said. "Alpha Beta has provided a firm foundation that will never be broken, ruined, or forgotten. The Alpha Beta Chapter of Phi Mu is an organization of women that sup- ports one another through the good times and the bad, no matter the dis- tance or the time that has passed." "Giving back is a way of sharing with others what this organization has done for them and how it has made an impact on them during their college years. It will be with them for the rest of their lives." Dona Martha Lynn and family