Gamma Phi Beta - University of Missouri

Nicole Graef Whitesell '91 Talks Legacy and Impact 2 ALPHA DELTA HILITES A s a double legacy, Nicole Graef Whitesell '91 was destined to become a member of Gamma Phi Beta. She followed the footsteps of her two older sisters, immediately feeling right at home while visiting the chapter house during high school. Yet, when the time came for her to make her final decision, Nicole had her own reasons for choosing our sisterhood. "I committed to staying with Gamma Phi through college and beyond because of the relationships I made with my pledge sisters, who became my true and constant friends," Nicole shared. "It's easy to stay engaged when you develop close friendships and get involved." Nicole made the most of every experience Gamma Phi could offer, including sidewalk songs, living with a variety of roommates, watching Days of Our Lives between classes or 90210 in the evenings, eating formal dinners with House Mom Donna, phone duty, living in the Annex, Homecoming serenades and, of course, celebrating a lavaliere, pinning, or engagement after seeing a new collage on the foyer mirror. She served as financial vice president and chapter president while in college and took on the role of alumni chairman of recruitment for several years post-graduation. After graduating with a bachelor's degree in mathematics and secondary mathematics education/ secondary education, Nicole went on to earn two post- graduate degrees from Lindenwood University. In 2020, she retired from education after serving as a high school math teacher for four years and a high school principal and assistant superintendent for the rest of her career. She is now enjoying a post- retirement job as an HR coordinator. Nicole recently took over the role of Affiliated House Corporation Board president. Her goal: "to continue the amazing work that Cindy Gates Wood '77 has done in her years on the AHC Board and as president." Nicole wants the board to continue to be fiscally responsible while providing a "home away from home" for the girls in the house. "Providing small updates as needed to keep the house up to date and looking new is also a priority." Today, Nicole is grateful for the significant role the chapter played in shaping who she is today. "Two local alumnae came by the house often when I lived there," she said. "I always enjoyed talking to Vesta Voss '33 and Elise Alexander '38, and I learned so much from those conversations." She also values the leadership and social opportunities that became the foundation for her career. "These experiences enhanced my ability to lead, listen, manage teams, and manage responsibilities effectively and efficiently. The social environment helped me develop people skills, being part of a supportive community helped build my self-esteem and identity, and I have lifelong friendships because of Gamma Phi Beta." Nicole and her husband live in Clayton, Missouri, with their 18-year-old daughter and 2-year-old dachshund-chihuahua mix. "We recently sold our house and moved to a condo downtown since we are now empty nesters!" Their daughter graduated from Clayton High School in May 2024 and is attending Indiana University. If you'd like to contact Nicole, you can send her an email at nlwhitesell@gmail.com. Meet Our Alumni Advisory Board President Sue Rodgers Vesser '49 lives in St. Louis, Mo. She still enjoys driving, shopping, and taking care of activities. Email: srvesser@charter.net Virginia Ziegler Bagby '50 shares that she used to have lunch with GPB sisters from KU, K-State, and MU at a senior living place on the first Friday of the month. Group coordinator Adele Heying Korth, Kansas '50 is currently looking for a new place to meet. Virginia lives in Kansas City, Mo. Email: virginiabagby@gmail.com Barbara Marshall Jones '54 is retired and living in Shawnee Mission, Kan. She is adjusting to her husband's passing after 60 years of marriage, and Barbara is involved with her grandchildren's activities. Email: chessvol@yahoo.com Susan Oswald James '67 moved to Waco, Texas, two years ago with her husband, a Baylor graduate. She appreciates less hectic traffic than San Antonio and having so many things to do associated with Baylor University. Email: susan.o.james@gmail.com Elaine Reinhardt Flieg '73 enjoys traveling with her husband, spending time with longtime friends, and attending Mizzou football games. She resides in Kirkwood, Mo. Email: ecflieg@live.com Tara Snapp Clark '80 lives in Charlestown, Mass. She finally retired after 40 years in the biotechnology industry, and Tara appreciates Mizzou's role in her STEM career. Email: tclark3232@comcast.net A L U M N A E N E W S If you have considered volunteering with Gamma Phi, Nicole has a message for you: "Don't hesitate to get involved if you have the time available! There are a variety of opportunities to give back with various levels of time commitments. You will not regret it!"

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