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Donor Spotlight: Ellen Bower

Donor Spotlight: Ellen Bower (Illinois)

Phi Mu Foundation is proud to shine a spotlight on Ellen Bower (Illinois) whose enduring commitment to our sisterhood exemplifies the essence of giving back. Ellen has dedicated her time, talent, and treasure to the Foundation, serving in leadership roles such as Wesleyan Society Chair, 1852 Society Chair, Carnation Club Chair, and as Chair of the Foundation Nominating Committee. Her passion for our mission is equally evident in her extensive contributions to Phi Mu Fraternity, including roles on the Ritual Committee, Fraternity Nominating Committee, and as a National Leadership and Curriculum Development Coordinator.

When asked why she supports Phi Mu Foundation, Ellen’s response reflects her unwavering belief in the lifetime development of women:

“For me, Phi Mu was instrumental in my personal and professional development. Through the generosity of donors, we can continue pouring into the lives of Phi Mu women. It’s a blessing to see the full circle of gratitude come to life when someone is positively impacted by our sisterhood, as I know I have been.”

Ellen’s favorite way Phi Mu Foundation gives back? She highlights programs that create lasting impacts, such as mental health programming, the Chapter Consultant program, and philanthropy education. She believes these initiatives enrich individuals and, by extension, the entire sisterhood.

Ellen also offers sage advice for first-time donors:

“Giving is a habit, and even if you start small, it’s a lifelong habit you’ll never regret. Whether your dollars support scholarships, impactful programs, or preserving our rich history, your generosity shapes the future of Phi Mu and impacts generations of women.”

Reflecting on her own journey, Ellen credits Phi Mu Foundation for shaping her philanthropic mindset and fostering connections with sisters across the nation. She recalls a particularly touching moment witnessing a Heart and Hand Grant provide relief to a sister recovering from a natural disaster—a powerful example of the Foundation’s impact in times of need.

As Ellen looks to the future, she sees Phi Mu Foundation playing an essential role in addressing challenges like affordability, mental health, and leadership development. Her vision reinforces the Foundation’s mission: empowering women to thrive within and beyond their Phi Mu experience.

Ellen’s story inspires us all to embrace generosity and invest in the betterment of our sisterhood. Thank you, Ellen, for your leadership, dedication, and unwavering belief in the power of Phi Mu Foundation.

Donor Spotlight: Leah Middlebrook

Donor Spotlight: Leah Middlebrook (NW State)

 

Leah Middlebrook has been an active member of the 1852 Society and a dedicated Phi Mu volunteer for years. Currently serving as the Foundation Giving Program Chair, Delta Housing Specialist, and Ritual Advisor, Leah’s commitment to Phi Mu is truly inspiring. In the past, she’s also held key leadership positions, including National Extension Chair and Dallas Alumnae President.

When asked what drives her continuous support of Phi Mu Foundation, Leah shared, “My Phi Mu volunteer roles have given me the opportunity to see young women grow into amazing leaders in their schools and communities. The Foundation enables leadership programs that truly pave the way for member growth.” Her passion for giving back is clear, especially through programs that unite members for multi-generational sessions filled with sisterhood and learning.

To first-time donors, Leah emphasizes, “Think back to your most memorable Phi Mu moments. If your experience was like mine, the Foundation’s funding played a role in those moments. Your gift will help the next generation have those same fond memories.”

We are deeply grateful for Leah’s continued dedication and her belief in the mission of Phi Mu Foundation. Together, we can continue to empower the next generation of sisters!

2024 National Convention Info

Slate of Nominees

The 2024 Phi Mu Foundation Nominating Committee sent an email to all Foundation Members on March 8, 2024, announcing that the following members have been slated for the position of Phi Mu Foundation Trustee: 

Robin Benoit (Oklahoma State)

Cindy Goldman (Florida State)

Shaby Tabibi Rosales (Salisbury)

Vicki Ryan (Missouri Western)

Many thanks to the Phi Mu Foundation Nominating Committee: Past Foundation President and Nominating Chair Cindy Lowden (Duke); Jessica Oswald (Western Carolina), Edith Brady (Queens), Past Foundation President Diane Eggert (NDSU), and Past Foundation President Pamela Gaines (SMU). 

Call for Bylaw Revisions

An email was sent to all Foundation members on February 29 with a call for bylaw revisions. If you have proposed changes for the Phi Mu Foundation Bylaws to be considered by the Foundation Bylaws Committee ahead of the Phi Mu Foundation Annual Meeting in July, please forward them to Foundation Bylaws Chair Cindy Goldman (Florida State) in writing by April 1, 2024 to cindygoldman24@gmail.com. Please include a rationale for your proposed change(s.)

Proposed changes received after 11:59 p.m. ET on April 1, 2024 will not be considered. The Foundation Bylaws Committee will submit a summary report to the voting delegates by June 9, 2024.

Sisterhood Auction

We’re putting a new spin on the Sisterhood Auction during Convention this summer! Instead of an online silent auction, the Sisterhood Auction will be a live auction during the Giving Program Reception on Saturday, July 13. Hosted by Auctioneer Extraordinaire and Foundation President Janeen Judah, the live auction will feature high-end jewelry, accessories, trips and experiences. Additionally, the name of every Giving Program member will be entered into a drawing and Janeen will draw one lucky member’s name to receive a special auction item.

Stay tuned to our social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and X, where we’ll share more information about this new and fun approach to the Sisterhood Auction.