Pi Beta Phi - Texas A&M University

Texas A&M University PAGE 5 W hen Candyce Crossman Marek '85 saw an ad in The Battalion announcing the establishment of a Pi Beta Phi chapter at Texas A&M, she knew she had to be a part of it. "I answered that call because my mother had been in a sorority," she recalled. "At the time, Greek life wasn't a huge necessity or focus for many, as there were so many other activities on campus. But for me, the timing was perfect." As a charter member of Texas Eta, Candy was eager to join an organization that had a reputation for fostering exceptional women. "I couldn't imagine anything better than being a part of Pi Phi—especially as an Aggie," she shared. Having grown up without sisters, the idea of lifelong sisterhood was particularly meaningful to her. Being a charter member was an experience Candy cherishes. "It was incredibly exciting! It was so fun meeting all the other Aggie women who were joining at the same time. Each one was special, smart, talented and amazing," she said. The early days of Texas Eta were spent in meetings in office buildings around Bryan and College Station, but the vision for the chapter's future was always clear. "From our humble beginnings to the beautiful home the chapter resides in now, it's been wonderful to witness the growth." Candy credits much of that success to the unwavering support of local Pi Phis. "The ladies of the Brazos Valley Alumnae Club were a beautiful example of what a Pi Phi woman should be," she said. "Now, as an alumna, I recognize the immense effort it took to bring Pi Beta Phi to Texas A&M." The graduate consultants also left a lasting impact by instilling the traditions and values of the sorority. As the first chapter president, Candy helped shape the foundation of Texas Eta. Some of her favorite memories included "building deep friendships" and the excitement of initiation. "We were so proud to wear our letters around campus, knowing that Pi Phi was brand new at Texas A&M." She fondly remembers preparing for the first recruitment, learning the skits, and welcoming the very first New Member class. "With each new group of sisters, our chapter grew stronger." Another milestone was establishing new traditions. "I believe I led the first ring pass when I got engaged, which was really fun!" she recalled. When the time came to officially receive the Texas Eta charter, Candy traveled to Kansas City for the Pi Beta Phi Convention. "That was a hugely meaningful experience." Moving frequently due to her husband's Air Force career, Candy found a Pi Phi group in every new city. While living on the island of Maui, she connected with a small but energetic alumnae "pocket," established by an active alumna from California. Now living in San Antonio, Candy and her husband are about to celebrate their 39 th wedding anniversary. All three of their children are Aggies, and they have three grandchildren. "These days, I'm busy spending time with family, gardening and looking forward to the 40 th anniversary celebration," she said. "I can't wait to see everyone again—each of the women I met through Pi Phi played a special part in my life." If you'd like to get in touch with Candy, you can send her an email at satxmareks@sbcglobal.net. Candy with her grandkids. President Ava Strain '22 Vice President Operations Abby Jenkins '24 CH A PT E R OF F ICE R S Memories of a Charter Member C A N D Y C E C R O S S M A N M A R E K ' 8 5 O N 4 0 Y E A R S O F T E X A S E T A Vice President Risk Management Sarah Friedman '23 Vice President Member Experience Hope Luedeker '23 Vice President Finance/Housing Sydney Saucier '24 Vice President Community Relations Taylor Parsons '23 Vice President Inclusion Presley Reilly '23 Vice President Recruitment Lucy Lunsford '23

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