Pi Beta Phi - Texas Tech University

Texas Gamma Chapter T pa g e 2 McMillan Family Pays It Forward to Texas Gamma Sisters Thankful for Pi Phi Experience he ties between the McMillan family are strong not only because of their relationship to each other, but also because of their sisterly bond in Pi Phi. With a charter member and Koshari in the family, one may feel compelled to follow in the same footsteps. Bill is an Arrow Man and helped build the lodge in the 1970s. "I think it gives him a lot of pride to be part of such a fabulous group and to be connected with his granddaughters, daughters, wife, and mother in such a special way," Melinda said. "When you have that kind of beginning, you just can't imagine being anything but a Texas Gamma. Those who came before us set the standards. I am so proud and blessed to be a part of such a fabulous Chapter," Melinda McMillan Mitchell '82 said. "It's special to know the women I love and respect the most helped shaped Texas Gamma into the sorority I am so proud to be a part of." Melinda recalls heartfelt memories of having her family by her side during special Pi Phi events, especially at initiation. Tracey McMillan Boyes '76 also fondly remembers her time in the Chapter. She is thankful to her family for preparing her for college life. "I come from a family that was very involved in sororities and fraternities. I have memories of Pi Phis coming to our house before I even knew what college and sororities were. As they discussed their memories from Texas Gamma, I became eager to join a sorority and grew very comfortable with Pi Phis," Tracey said. Many childhood experiences with Pi Phi influenced Melinda and Tracey as they entered into college. Their bond with the sorority strengthened as they met more members throughout their lives. "I think that who I am today has been shaped by those who came before me," Melinda said. "My grandmother, mother, two sisters, and all those other special angels deeply impacted my life. I just can't imagine not having the experience and interaction with my peers who became dear friends and the advisors whose wisdom and compassion I still refer to today." Along with the many women in the McMillan family who are Pi Phis, their father, Bill, also shares a special connection with Texas Gamma. Melinda McMillan Mitchell '82, Tracey McMillan Boyes '76, Meredith Hargrove Howard '02, and Shannon McMillan Hargrove '75 share a special Pi Phi bond. –Sarah Hargrove '05 The McMillan family has chosen to give back to the Chapter that has impacted their lives in so many ways. They have joined to contribute a family gift in preparation of the future generations of Texas Gamma. "I think the Chapter benefits from having support through financial and personal involvement from the alumnae. It helps create a strong Chapter and allows growth and friendships to be developed throughout your life," Tracey said. When asked why it is important to support the Chapter, Melinda said, "Pi Phi provided a safe environment to grow, learn, share, stretch my talents, and create lifelong friendships and memories. Because of my positions within the Chapter, I am more compassionate, less judgmental, and grateful for having such a positive experience. We must ensure the future of our special Chapter and that we continue to provide the best experience to the very best girls. Pledge classes are increasing and the lodge cannot accommodate all of the women and their needs. We want to provide a beautiful house that the ladies want to spend time in." Laura McMillan '53, Shannon McMillan Hargrove '75, and Meredith Hargrove '02 celebrate the initiation of Sarah Hargrove '05 into Pi Beta Phi. Bill McMillan helped build Pi Phi's lodge in the 1970s. He is a proud supporter of the Chapter along with his wife, Laura '53, and family.

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