#MeetTheMus: Trustee Delicia Arnold, Kappa Omega
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 Delicia Arnold!
What made your collegiate Phi Mu experience special?
As an only child, I was so excited to finally have a bunch of sisters! To make it even better, my chapter always treated the Phis like queens and made us feel so special and welcome from moment one. This made the bond within the entire chapter incredibly strong.
What (or who) influenced you to give back to Phi Mu as an alumnae volunteer?
I was somewhat thrust into a volunteer position at the University of Tennessee when I moved to Knoxville and got involved with the alumnae chapter to simply meet some people in my new town. However, as Chapter Adviser for Kappa chapter, I met and began to know Mary Young, Dr. Cathy Sessums, and Kathy Williams and my Phi Mu life was forever changed. These women became my dear friends, mentors and cheerleaders. In turn, they introduced me to many other incredible women that have also had very positive influences on me to continue to give back and ultimately led me down this road to serving as Trustee for Phi Mu Foundation.
How has your journey in Phi Mu impacted the woman that you are today?
It has built on and strengthened the values taught and instilled in me by my mom, and also as a Catholic. Phi Mu continues to encourage me to adapt to different people, different styles, and different issues. I believe that as long as you stay involved, Phi Mu is a life journey that continues to make all of us the best woman we can be.
What legacy do you hope to leave for Phi Mu through your work with the Foundation?
I hope to shape Phi Mu Foundation into something that is a natural part of the journey from beginning to end for every Phi Mu. We always say you only get out of Phi Mu what you put into it and I believe that this is true. If we all made continuous giving of time, treasure and talent part the journey, imagine the things we could do! I want Phi Mu sisters to see and experience their dollars at work and to put the ‘fun’ in FoUNdation!
What would you tell a young alumna about why she should invest with the Foundation?
Giving to Phi Mu Foundation allows the Phi Mus after you to continue to enjoy the journey. Your contributions allow us to continue to help sisters in need, provide programming to develop great leaders and Phi Mu legends, provide scholarships for members to continue their education and preserve our history for all time. Continued giving to the organization that gives us so much allows Phi Mu and all of as members to make a mark on the world collectively.
What is your favorite Phi Mu tradition?
I always loved the candle lights for lavalieres, pins, and engagements. While serving as Chapter Adviser, I said something one day to the Kappa Chapter President about how much I loved the tradition … and right after I found out I was pregnant, she decided to do one for me! I was the first person to start it, so on the “Going to the Chapel” round, the candle went ALL the way around and when the last person handed it to me, I blew it out and said I’m pregnant with a girl! It was very special and thoughtful.
What is your favorite song on the radio right now?
Body like a Back Road by Sam Hunt
What book is on your summer reading list?
I am not a big reader, but I LOVE movies and just getting out and having fun!
Delicia is married to her husband John and has a daughter Abbey Clare. They have four dogs – three Weimaraners and one Miniature Schnauzer. She loves to play tennis, travel and be on the water … and most of her time is spent between family, being a taxi and mom to Abbey Clare, and Phi Mu!
