Minnesota Alpha Chapter of Pi Beta Phi at the University of Minnesota
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© 2018 PENNINGTON & COMPANY FUNDRAISING, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 3 Executive Summary At the request of the Minnesota Alpha alumnae leadership, Pennington & Company conducted a pre-campaign feasibility study to determine the potential for a capital campaign to fund one of two different housing projects: a new sorority condominium complex building or the renovation and expansion of the existing property. From July through November 2018, 34 alumnae were interviewed about their sorority experience, the undergraduates, the proposed project, and a potential $3 million capital campaign to support the proposed housing changes. When asked to describe their interest in Pi Beta Phi, nearly every interviewed alumna spoke fondly of her experience as a member of Minnesota Alpha. Women cited lifelong friendships, the chapter's strength at UMN, and leadership development as particular points of pride. All interview participants said that while in school, Minnesota Alpha was "The Best" or "Among the Best" chapters at the University of Minnesota. A 1980s alumna stated, "The Pi Phis were the best girls on campus. We are the pretty girls, the smart girls, the fun girls." Many alumnae said that the chapter continues to be one of the top three sororities on campus. Alumnae feel strongly that one of the proposed projects is needed for the future success of Pi Beta Phi at the University of Minnesota, as 97% ranked the project as "Very Important" or "Important." Most interviewees feel a project must be completed to remain one of the top sororities at the University of Minnesota and to provide safe, comfortable housing for today's members. While there were differing options about which options is best, many alumnae expressed concerns with the sorority condominium complex. Objections included selling the current house, keeping members safe in a co-ed building, and not preserving the chapter's history. The majority of interviewed alumnae believe Minnesota Alpha alumnae will make financial contributions to a capital campaign. Most shared that a strong bond of sisterhood and positive experience are reasons why women would give. Other alumnae feel women would support the proposed project because they want the chapter to remain competitive