When Becky Baznik School, Delta Omega, applied for a Phi Mu Foundation Scholarship, she never imagined the profound impact the timing of the scholarship would have for her and her family. Becky was finishing up her Masters in Education – School Counseling program when her husband’s health took a toll on his ability to work. Because she had already received a Phi Mu Foundation Scholarship for the upcoming academic year, she was able to continue her coursework without any increased financial burden.

“The scholarship you awarded me for my last year in my M.Ed. – School Counseling program allowed me to finish this year as planned. My husband’s health had been failing, and he had to stop working in August of 2016.  If I hadn’t already received your generous scholarship, I don’t know if I could have prioritized spending money on tuition when we no longer had an income.  Now I’ve graduated with a 4.0, and I’m job hunting with the knowledge that I will be able to provide for my family while serving others and balancing the needs of my family and career.  Thank you so much!”

Growing up, Ellen Fryman Bower didn’t know much about Greek Life or joining a sorority … and if you would have told her in the fall of 2002 that she was about to join an organization that would change the path of her life, she may not have believed you. But Ellen says there was an instant connection once she stepped foot inside the Phi Mu house on the campus of University of Illinois, and one she knew would be for a lifetime.

We’re launching a multi-part series this summer called #MeetTheMus, where we’ll introduce one of our Phi Mu Foundation Trustees each week, and give you an inside peek at what drives their passion for the lifetime development of Phi Mu women. Our Trustee spotlight for this week is Phi Mu Foundation President and Past National President Kris Shetler Bridges, Delta Nu!