2006 Phi Mu National Convention: A True Phi Mu Celebration!

"Convention is like Christmas for me. I get to see Sisters I haven't seen in years, and I always have so much fun, it is like getting to open presents!,” said Phi Mu Foundation Vice President of Public Relations, Margo Grace, ΔΤ. And, indeed, the 2006 Phi Mu National Convention in Nashville, Tennessee was chocked full of fun, surprises, valuable information and Sisterhood.

Phi Mu Foundation and Phi Mu Fraternity celebrated the end of the incredible 2004 - 2006 biennial where the dream of a Phi Mu National Headquarters became a reality, meaningful relief was provided for Sisters who were devastated by hurricanes Katrina and Rita; over $180,000 in scholarships were awarded to Phi Mu Sisters; and over $1.1 million was raised for Children’s Miracle Network.

During Convention, Phi Mu Sisters came out in full force to support the popular Caring Carnations program through which the Foundation raised nearly $18,000! Everywhere you looked, pink carnations decorated the name badges of Sisters – collegians and alumnae alike – as a testament to the fun and celebration that defined this year’s event.

And, since the Foundation is celebrating its fiftieth year, their Convention luncheon was appropriately entitled “Fifty and Fabulous!” A part of the Betty Wilkinson Lecture Series, the event was a real hit with its 50’s-themed décor and inspirational message from Mercedes Ramirez Johnson, ΖΛ. As one of only four survivors of a devastating airplane crash in the mountains of Colombia, Mercedes reminded us just how precious life is and how meaningful it is to be a part of this unique Sisterhood. The “Foundation lunch was amazing!” said Delta Tau Chapter Adviser, Christi Morel, ΔΤ. “Mercedes was an inspiration to us all. She gave me a sense of renewal in my everyday life and in my Phi Mu life! She encouraged me to live life to the fullest now, because no one knows what tomorrow brings.” Sisters who were privileged to be in the room with Mercedes were touched and visibly moved by her words.

The Legacy League, a new giving level, was introduced at Convention and was met with great enthusiasm and success! More than 40 Sisters committed to contributing at least $1,000 per year entered into this exclusive program which provides much-needed support to Phi Mu’s continued program development and operation. In addition, members of Phi Mu Foundation’s premiere giving level, 1852 Society, reached the remarkable goal of giving over $1 million in donations since its inception in 1996! This amazing group of women is the epitome of faithful Sisterhood.

During Convention, the Foundation held its biennial meeting. The members of the Board of Trustees for the 2006 -08 biennium are: President Shellye McCarty, ΑΔ; Vice President of Special Projects Nancy Campbell, ΒΦ; Vice President of Public Relations Margo Grace, ΔΤ; Vice President of Philanthropy Cindy Lowden, ΓΕ; Vice President of Donor Relations Marilyn Mann, ΔΕ; Vice President of Finance C.J. Wilson, ΕΔ; Chairman of the Board Robin Fanning, ΒΙ; and Trustee Diane Eggert, ΖΙ.

With renewed energy and excitement, Phi Mu Foundation is charging into the next biennium, dreaming big dreams and laying the groundwork for new milestones in growth and financial stability for Phi Mu. Why not join with us and be a part of this exciting team of Sisters? It only takes a commitment of $50 to join the Foundation for life! Or, consider stepping up to one of our exclusive giving levels – 1852 Society or Legacy League. At whatever level, your financial support is vital to the continuance of our Sisterhood and we need your support! Visit us at www.phimufoundation.org to learn more about giving opportunities and how you can become an active part of our future while celebrating your own Phi Mu history.