Pi Beta Phi - University of Georgia

NEARLY 80 YEARS OF PI PHI TRADITION PAGE 1 For more information on the history of the house, visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/PiPhiMemories A s February 4, 2019, approaches, we as members of Georgia Alpha and alumnae of the University of Georgia have the opportunity to reflect on what our UGA Founders may have experienced and remember our own wonderful memories at 886 South Milledge. In 1939, fourteen young women became charter members of the Georgia Alpha Chapter of Pi Beta Phi. Today, this chapter has approximately 2,500 alumnae and almost 300 active members. I wonder if these charter members had any idea of what they were creating. What a legacy! Over the years, there have been many Pi Phis who have ensured that legacy has continued. Women who have served tirelessly on AAC and CHC, including Sis Mullis, Betty Tucker, Marilyn Ford, Bitsy Youngblood, Judy Saye, Karen Hawes, Vaneesa Little, Melanie Delbridge, Corry McPherson and Kay Kenimer — just to name a few! And, Pi Phis who have given financially to the chapter — too many to name here — but you know who you are. Thank you! Alumnae participation and financial giving ensure Georgia Alpha's strong presence on the UGA campus and give new members the friendships, support and a gathering spot that we experienced during our years in Athens. The Greek system at Georgia is strong. In August, there were over 1,200 young women seeking to join one of the 19 sororities on campus. And, the Greek system is much more competitive. As you ride down Milledge Avenue you will see major house improvements to ΑΓΔ, ΔΔΔ, ΔΓ, and ΑΟΠ. Currently, ΑΧΩ is starting a multimillion-dollar renovation and ΑΦ, who has just started a chapter at UGA, is restoring a beautiful home near ΚΑΘ. Each sorority is spending from $3M – $8M for their improvements. Pi Phi's last major renovation was in 1968 when we added the two residential wings — where many Pi Phis have learned to spread their individual "angel wings" amid supportive friends. In 2011,we updated the bathrooms and added a House Director suite that allows us to attract the best house director on campus! We now need to update and expand the house so we can continue to attract the best young women on campus. During the past 20+ years, various Chapter House Corporation Boards have had "starts and stops" with the desire to expand our house. The goal has been to add a community room that could be used for chapter meetings, recruitment events and as a study hall. As we begin our 80th year, CHC is committed to completing this dream. As we begin this journey, we need assistance from a highly selective group of alumnae — including you. We are working to identify sisters who have both the ability and interest to provide major assistance to the project. We urge your thoughtful consideration of this plan. With your support, Georgia Alpha will continue to provide a quality living environment that supports, nurtures, and develops outstanding young women with the skills and confidence to face an ever-changing world. The commitment we make today cannot be underestimated — it will help to ensure that Pi Phi has a permanent place over our hearts and in the heart of UGA Greek life. A legacy you can create. Sincerely, Peggy Batson Ballard '67 and Joan Todd Duncan '68 CHC Members and Co-Chairs Georgia Alpha Legacy Project

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