Phi Mu - Louisiana State University

2 Alpha Eta Chapter Liz Scarbrough Gibbens '54 joined Phi Mu for a simple reason: " They were fun, natural, " They were fun, natural, and easy to do stuff with." and easy to do stuff with." She took pride in being a member of a group so outstanding, as the members were versatile, and many were leaders on campus. Phi Mus served as president of Mortar Board and were outstanding junior women, there were several Who's Who winners, and Alpha Eta had dedicated Chapter advisors. Liz's class was very compatible, and it only got better over the four years. So much so that her senior year, Alpha Eta received its first National Chapter of the Year Award at the national convention in Biloxi. Liz appreciated how Phi Mu challenged her to try different things and leadership positions. As an undergraduate, she served as recruitment chairman, Chapter president, and collegiate vice president. As an alumna, she served on the local level of Phi Mu before becoming a member-at- large on the National Council, which she never thought she would do. When Liz was a member of the house corporation in the late '50s, enrollment at LSU had quickly expanded due to veterans returning from the Korean War. e university needed housing but did not have the funds to put into it. e dean of women had a vision for sorority houses and convinced the board of supervisors to set aside land. (Prior to that, everyone lived in a Panhellenic building.) Since there wasn't enough land around the lakes for all 16 houses, they made plans to draw for lots. Liz drew number one, which meant she could draw for a lot the next go-around and Phi Mu would have a spot in the first few. When she drew again, she drew lot number one. "Our architect had said, 'Do not draw lot number one, I would have to start over with the plans.' So what did I do but draw lot number one!" Liz recalled. A. Hays Town started over and built a lovely house that has served our sisterhood well but now needs to be renovated and expanded. Liz is proud to support these efforts through the 4090: First on the Row, First in Our Hearts capital campaign, as she loves Phi Mu. "ey do a wonderful job training young women for the future, to be a good citizen and a good person, and what is the right way to live your life—and I'm all for that." She encourages her sisters to remember how their Phi Mu membership helped them become who they are today and get involved. In her career, Liz taught first grade for three years before having a family. She continued enjoying working with people and doing volunteer projects, including work on the Junior League of Baton Rouge, several leadership roles in her church, and working with the city council to make Baton Rouge a better place to live. Liz's husband and two boys have always supported and encouraged her in her endeavors. In her free time, Liz enjoys gardening and playing Bridge. She and four of her pledge class sisters stay in touch at 88. A Love for A Love for Phi Mu Phi Mu Liz Scarbrough Gibbens '54 Shares Her Experience Picking the First House on Greek Row Want to connect? You can find Liz at pgibbens@cox.net.

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