Pi Beta Phi at UCLA: A Legacy of Sisterhood, Leadership, and Service
Introduction
The California Delta Chapter of Pi Beta Phi at UCLA stands as a testament to the enduring values of friendship, intellectual development, leadership cultivation, and community service. This article delves into the history, activities, and impact of this vibrant sorority chapter, highlighting its commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering environment for its members.
A Home Away From Home
For many young women at UCLA, Pi Beta Phi serves as a "home away from home." The sorority provides a sense of belonging, mutual support, and opportunities for leadership development, easing the transition to college life. As one past Chapter President aptly stated, membership offers a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience within the Panhellenic system.
Diverse Sisterhood
The California Delta Chapter is characterized by a diverse group of women with a wide range of achievements and interests. The sisters are UCLA athletes, tour guides, SAA members, research assistants, CareExtenders, personal fitness trainers, and MUN members, among other things. The sisters' majors range from Religious Studies and Art History to Neuroscience and Engineering. This diversity is celebrated, with the understanding that each Pi Phi is unique.
Core Values and Commitment
Despite their varied passions and aspirations, Pi Beta Phi sisters are united by their core values and a commitment to leadership, academics, and service. This commitment is reflected in their active involvement in both the community and on campus.
The Mission of Pi Beta Phi
The mission of Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women is to promote friendship, develop women of intellect and integrity, cultivate leadership potential, and enrich lives through community service. The sorority encourages women to develop meaningful relationships as they pursue their personal goals.
Read also: Gamma Phi Beta at UCLA
Community Involvement and Philanthropy
Pi Beta Phi sisters are actively involved in community service. The Wisconsin Alpha chapter hosts "Wing King" every fall, raising hundreds of dollars for Read > Lead > Achieve®. Members sell tickets to people in other chapters, and the event usually has a great turnout. The food for the event consists of wings, sauces, fries, and a fountain drink.
A Tragic Loss
In a somber turn of events, the Pi Beta Phi sorority mourned the loss of Andrea "Andy" DelVesco, a UCLA student and member of the sorority's UCLA chapter. DelVesco's body was discovered following a fire at her Westwood apartment. The sorority remembered DelVesco as someone with "a contagious spirit" and "a fearless giver," who was "a friend to every person she met."
The Investigation
The circumstances surrounding DelVesco's death were tragic. Alberto Hinojosa Medina was charged with one count of capital murder with the special circumstance of murder during a robbery, one count of arson of a dwelling, and two counts of first-degree burglary. Eric Marquez was charged with one count of murder and two counts of first-degree burglary. Prosecutors cited surveillance video, witnesses, and items stolen from DelVesco's apartment that were found in Medina's home as evidence.
Historical Context: A Legacy of Firsts at UCLA
UCLA's history is intertwined with the establishment of Greek-lettered organizations that have significantly impacted student life. In 1923, when UCLA was still known as the Southern Branch of the University of California, a group of Black women formed the Pi chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority, the university's first Greek-lettered organization. In April of the same year, a Black fraternity, the Upsilon chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi, opened its doors. These organizations have played a vital role in shaping Black life at UCLA.
Centennial Celebrations: Honoring a Century of Impact
UCLA recognized the contributions of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority and the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity with permanent plaques on campus during their centennial year. The Upsilon chapter's celebration included a six-day reunion, a centennial luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, and other events. The chapter's long line of UCLA luminaries includes tennis icon and civil rights activist Arthur Ashe, Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, Olympic medalist and chemist Jimmy LuValle, and Winston Doby, who served as UCLA's vice chancellor for student affairs.
Read also: Premier Accounting Society: UCLA
Kappa Alpha Psi: Community Outreach and Service
The Upsilon chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi is committed to community outreach and service. Through programs like the Kappa League, the Kappa Camp summer enrichment program, and the national Guide Right initiative, chapter members and alumni provide younger Black students throughout Los Angeles with personal and academic guidance, development opportunities, college preparation, and financial literacy training.
Delta Sigma Theta: A Heritage of Activism and Service
The Pi chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority hosted its own five-day reunion and centennial celebration, which featured a dedication ceremony and chapter gala, as well as an exclusive screening of "Birthing Justice," a documentary directed and co-written by triple Bruin and Pi chapter alumna Monique Matthews. The chapter has continued to embody a heritage of activism and service, transforming the lives of its members and the broader community.
Wisconsin Alpha: A Historic Chapter
The Wisconsin Alpha chapter of Pi Beta Phi was organized by Gertrude Clark Sober, Michigan Beta, and Elizabeth Church Smith, Colorado Alpha. The first installation of the chapter took place in Madison, Wisconsin, in November of 1894. The festivities began with the preparatory service and Cookie Shine held in the historic Grace Episcopal Church. A banquet was held at the Maple Bluff Country Club on Saturday evening.
Wisconsin Alpha's Chapter House
Meetings during the first year were held at Memorial Union or classrooms around campus. The chapter moved into the current house at 130 Langdon Street in 1987. The house is located on Lake Mendota and has its very own dock. Many members use the dock in the summer and spring for enjoying the sunshine, jumping into the lake and having an overall good time! The views of the lake make the house stand out amongst other chapters on campus. There are 21 rooms in the house with a total of 50 women who can live in.
The Secret Turret
Something that makes the house special is the secret turret! Known only to Wisconsin Alpha Pi Phis, the turret is located in the top corner of the house and can only be accessed by a separate stair well. The turret houses initiation each year and is a very notable part of the initiation experience! In addition to the turret, the house also has a grand piano.
Read also: UCLA Fraternity History
tags: #pi #beta #phi #ucla #history
