2023-24 Annual Report
2023-24 Phi Mu Foundation Annual Report
A Message From Our Leadership
Dear Sisters and Friends,
On the heels of the 2024 National Convention, we are filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and hope for the future of Phi Mu. Our sisterhood has always been a point of light, and in this moment, we want to celebrate the incredible journey we are on together—a journey shaped by our values and a commitment to Sisters Helping Sisters at every stage of Phi Mu membership.
Inspired by the Amplifying Sorority research conducted by the Foundation for Fraternal Excellence, we know the college and university landscape is changing and that our Panhellenic communities are evolving to meet the needs of today’s college woman. What we’ve learned from this research is that sororities like Phi Mu already offer what Generation Z women are seeking – academic support, leadership opportunities that build professional skills and meaningful, lifelong friendships. That means the Foundation’s work to invest in these types of programs is more important than ever.
Because of your steadfast commitment to our sisterhood, we are providing critical support to Phi Mu women across the country each and every day.
As we look ahead, let us embrace the evolution of the sorority experience and invest in these important programs with a renewed sense of purpose. Women need the support of Sisters Helping Sisters now more than ever. Together, we can continue to build a culture of philanthropy within Phi Mu that will enrich the lives of our members, our campuses and our communities for generations to come.
We are grateful for your contributions to Phi Mu Foundation and Sisters Helping Sisters. Enjoy reading more about the impact that your generous donations have created for Phi Mu women in the 2023-24 Annual Report.
With Appreciation,
Janeen Judah (Texas A&M)
2024-2026 Foundation President
Kristin Tofanelli (Georgia Southern)
Executive Director
Investing in Leadership & Education
Investing in leadership and educational programs is core to our mission of the lifetime development of women. Your contributions allow us to support programs that are empowering Phi Mu women to become the best version of themselves. The tools and knowledge our members gain from these programs last them well beyond their college years and are preparing them well to serve their communities and grow in their careers.
Meet Chloe Baker (West Alabama)
“Mental health programming is essential for today’s college women because it provides critical support and resources to navigate the unique challenges they face. College life often brings significant stress from academic pressures, social dynamics, and the transition to independence. Mental health programs offer early intervention and prevention, helping to identify and address issues before they escalate. They also foster a supportive community where students can discuss their struggles without stigma, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being. This is exactly what Brave Talk does. By equipping women with resources and support, their mental health improves and also boosts their academic performance and prepares them for future challenges.”
In 2023-24, we awarded $121,400 in leadership and educational grants for various programs, including:
Funding Academic Scholarships
Awarding academic scholarships has a long-standing history within the Foundation with our first-ever scholarship awarded soon after our inception in 1956. Phi Mu was originally established as a literary society and your donations to academic scholarships help sustain our 172-year commitment to furthering education and expanding knowledge for women.
Meet Sarah Joy Gallardo (Adelphi)
“As I pursue a degree as a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, I am so grateful for your kind gift. Because of this scholarship, I will be able to help my parents pay off some of my tuition this year. I have wanted to be a doctor since I was a child, and I realize that being able to fulfill this dream comes at a tremendous financial cost. By graduating with less debt, I will be able to repay my parents for their sacrifice once I become a fully-licensed and practicing physician devoted to giving back to those in need.”
The Foundation awarded 156 Phi Mu women with $187,650 in academic scholarships in 2023-24 to pursue their undergraduate and graduate-level education.
Curating our History
In 2023-24, your gifts to the Foundation helped fund a massive undertaking in historic preservation this fiscal year, which was centralizing all of Phi Mu’s archives, making it much easier for members who visit Peachtree City to see all that we have to offer in the Heritage Museum at Phi Mu National Headquarters. The transfer of our full collection of archives is now complete and we are proud that all of our archives and memorabilia now reside under one roof.
Meet Kate Miller (Mercer)
“Serving on the Historic Preservation Committee has greatly deepened my understanding and appreciation of Phi Mu’s rich history. I’ve had the privilege of exploring and examining stories and artifacts I never knew existed, unveiling a legacy that inspires me more than ever. It is crucial that we continue to uncover, preserve, and share this dynamic history with our members. To support this important mission, I am honored to be a dedicated member of a Phi Mu Foundation giving program.”
The Foundation invested $8,800 in rent and insurance for the Philomathean Room at the Cannonball House and expenses related to relocating archives and preserving relics for the Heritage Museum at Phi Mu National Headquarters.
Providing Emergency Assistance
Lending a helping hand is core to who we are as Phi Mus and your contributions provide support to our sisters in need through emergency grants. Members who are experiencing medical events, natural disasters and other dire circumstances and meet the grant criteria are eligible to apply for financial assistance from the Foundation.
Meet Marisol O’Neal (Louisiana Tech)
“In the blink of an eye, life can change. Natural disasters do not discriminate; everyone can be on the receiving end at any given time. Over the years, I have referred many women to Phi Mu Foundation for emergency assistance — whether it be due to damages caused by hurricanes, tornadoes, or fires. Each referral was met with open arms by Foundation, and each woman received assistance that made a difference in her life. Ultimately, I decided to join this Committee, so I could join my sisters who serve our sisterhood in such a meaningful, impactful way; this committee is the epitome of “sisters helping sisters.”
In 2023-24, we awarded $6,430 in member assistance grants to seven members facing difficult times in their lives.
Other Philanthropic Endeavors
In 2023-24, we awarded $9,500 in other philanthropic endeavors, including:
2023-26 Phi Mu Foundation Strategic Plan
Foundation’s 2023-26 Strategic Plan is guided by our vision statement: Every Phi Mu supported and empowered through a lifetime of giving and a shared commitment to love, honor and truth. This Strategic Plan highlights our ongoing commitment to investing in the lifetime development of women and supporting the Fraternity’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging efforts.
2023-24 Financial Overview
