Minnesota Alpha Chapter of Pi Beta Phi at the University of Minnesota
Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1065206
© 2018 PENNINGTON & COMPANY FUNDRAISING, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 24 "Part of the charm of being in a sorority at Minnesota is the house. There is something really nice when you first move away [from home] to go someplace that felt like a home. I feel strongly about keeping the house." – 2000s alumna "My heart breaks because I don't want to sell that house. You can't replace 100 years of history." – 2000s alumna A few alumnae understand that the new sorority condominium complex would be a quick fix to many of the existing issues. When talking about the condo and partnering with a developer vs. improvements on the existing house, one 1980s alumna said, "It would be easier overall to do." While many alumnae are sentimental about the existing house, one 1950s alumnae did not share those feelings. She said, "It isn't that hard for me emotionally to step away from this property." Others felt the condo was forwarding thinking and would keep Minnesota Alpha competitive in terms of student housing. A 1980s alumnae agreed, "As much as I love this house, I think the only way we will be relevant is the condo complex." When asked about weaknesses of the plan to upgrade the current house, a few participants are concerned it would cost more than $3 million to accomplish everything necessary. Others question how much could be done to the current facility and lament ongoing parking issues. A 1950s alumna said, "I'm wondering if the house is a money pit because of its age." In a campaign, it will be important to provide cost estimates and detailed project plans to build confidence among alumnae. Those opposed to the sorority condominium complex cited a variety of reasons. Some referenced ever-changing housing trends. A 2000s alumna stated, "I'm not opposed to change. My concern is the campus has evolved so much with housing changes that those from 10 years ago are no longer relevant. Women eight years