Junior year, I transferred to Merrimack College, hopeful for the year ahead. As a freshman, making the leap from high school to college naturally comes with a bit of anxiety. Entering a new school and adapting to a completely new lifestyle is scary, but feeling that way as an upperclassman feels uniquely out of place, especially when it seems like everyone else has already found their people.
During my first semester, a friend in one of my classes suggested I look into Zeta Tau Alpha. At first, I thought I had missed my chance to rush, but I soon learned there were still opportunities to join. When I spoke with one of the active members, she shared how taking on greater roles within ZTA had deepened the bonds among the sisters. Hearing about that level of connection was the ultimate turning point for me, inspiring me not only to join, but to push myself toward a leadership position within the chapter.
Though I was excited to get involved, my initial opportunities to lead were a bit limited. Because I hadn’t been in the chapter long enough when elections rolled around, I wasn’t able to run for Executive Council. Thankfully, I was allowed to serve on the Program Council alongside two wonderful women leading our philanthropy efforts. Stepping into the role of Think Pink Chair has given me the chance to share what ZTA’s philanthropy is all about and show how our chapter makes a difference.
Zeta Tau Alpha’s national philanthropy is Breast Cancer Education and Awareness. 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, making this cause deeply personal to so many of us. To reach survivors and spread vital health information, ZTA collaborates with three national organizations. We work alongside the American Cancer Society, supporting initiatives like the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks, as well as the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to advance early detection and treatment discovery. We also partner with the NFL by passing out pink ribbons to keep breast health at the top of everyone’s mind.
Within our community at Merrimack College, creating a strong campus impact is something we strive for. In the past, our chapter has hosted events like Pink Out games, Sparky Takeovers, and Aroma Joe’s pop-ups. In my role as Think Pink Chair, I wanted to partner with even more local businesses and organizations to boost our outreach and raise as much money as possible. For this year’s Think Pink Week, we’re excited to host Uncle Joey’s Cannolis, a Kendra Scott pop-up, Aroma Joe’s, and a special Pink Dinner to bring the campus together and show our support for the cause. To top it all off, we will also be hosting a bra drive on campus to support local shelters and women in need.
Although my time in Zeta Tau Alpha has been short, I hope I’ve impacted others just as much as this chapter and our philanthropy have impacted me. I am thankful for all of my advisors, my sisters, and my support systems who have stood by me and encouraged me in my position as Think Pink Chair. I can’t wait to see how much we accomplish together and how our chapter continues to make a difference in the years ahead.