One of the joys of being a Phi Mu alumna is watching the new generations of sisters grow and thrive. But sometimes, staying involved with your collegiate chapter can be a challenge—especially if you’ve moved away or have a busy schedule that makes attending events difficult. Even if you’re no longer living near campus or don’t have time to be as hands-on as you’d like, there are still plenty of ways to support your collegiate chapter from a distance and continue your connection to the sisterhood.
Here are some ways to stay engaged with your collegiate chapter—whether you live across the country or just have too much on your plate to attend regular events.
Stay Engaged Through Virtual Events
Thanks to technology, staying connected from afar has never been easier. Some collegiate chapters may host virtual events, allowing alumnae to participate in chapter life no matter where they are. Whether it’s a virtual philanthropy event, a Zoom reunion, or an online sisterhood celebration, these events offer a way for alumnae to stay engaged without needing to be physically present.
Virtual events also provide an opportunity to share your wisdom and experiences with current members. You can participate in career panels, give advice, or simply show your support during chapter events, all from the comfort of your own home.
How to Participate Virtually:
- Ask your collegiate chapter if they’re hosting virtual events you can attend. From Bid Day celebrations to philanthropy fundraisers, there are many ways to stay involved online.
- Offer to speak at a chapter meeting virtually or participate in a career panel to share your experience and advice with the younger sisters.
Support Your Chapter Financially
Even if you can’t be there in person, one of the most impactful ways to support your collegiate chapter is through financial contributions. Collegiate chapters often rely on donations to fund events, philanthropy efforts, and chapter improvements. As an alumna, your financial support—whether it’s a small contribution or a larger gift—can help ensure that future Phi Mu sisters have the same incredible experience you did.
Many alumnae also choose to donate to Phi Mu Foundation, which supports both collegiate and alumnae initiatives across the country.
How to Support Financially:
- Consider donating directly to your collegiate chapter to support specific projects or philanthropies.
- If you’d like to make a broader impact, contribute to Phi Mu Foundation to support collegiate chapters across the country and help fund scholarships, leadership programs, and philanthropy efforts.
Be a Mentor to Current Collegiate Members
One of the most valuable things you can offer your collegiate chapter is mentorship. Your experience as a Phi Mu alumna is an incredible resource for the younger generation. Even from a distance, you can make a lasting impact by mentoring sisters and helping them navigate college life.
One of the best ways for mentorship is by joining your collegiate chapter’s advisory board. You may want to check with your collegiate chapter to see if there are open positions or ones that allow you to participate virtually if you’ve moved away.
How to Offer Mentorship:
- Let your collegiate chapter know you’re available to join an advisory board—and see if they'll allow virtual advisers.
- Reach out to younger sisters you know who might be interested in learning from your experiences, especially in areas like career development or leadership.
Attend Special Events and Reunions
While it might not be possible to attend regular chapter events, make it a goal to show up for special events or reunions when you can. Phi Mu’s big events—like Bid Day, Homecoming, or initiation—are not only fun but are key moments when your presence as an alumna can make a big difference. These events provide a chance to reconnect with your chapter and show the current members that their alumnae are still actively supporting them.
If you can’t attend in person, send a letter of support to the current members.
How to Participate in Special Events:
- Plan to attend major chapter events like Homecoming, Bid Day, or alumnae reunions, even if it’s just once a year.
- If you can’t be there in person, send a letter of encouragement or a message of congratulations to the chapter.
Stay Connected Through Social Media
One of the easiest ways to stay connected to your collegiate chapter is by following their activities on social media. Most chapters have Instagram, TikTok or Facebook accounts where they post updates, photos from events, and highlights from chapter life. By liking, commenting, and sharing their posts, you can show your support from wherever you are.
You can also use social media to stay in touch with sisters, both old and new, and keep up with what’s happening in their lives. Social media provides a low-pressure way to stay engaged and feel connected, even if you can’t be there in person.
How to Stay Connected on Social Media:
- Follow your chapter’s social media accounts to keep up with events, updates, and celebrations.
- Engage by liking and commenting on posts to show your support and stay visible in the chapter’s community.
You Can Still Make an Impact from Afar
Supporting your collegiate chapter from a distance may seem challenging, but there are countless ways to stay engaged and make a positive impact—whether through virtual events, mentorship, financial contributions, or simply staying connected via social media. Your presence as an alumna matters, and even if you can’t be physically present, your support and guidance can help shape the next generation of Phi Mu sisters.
Remember: No matter where life takes you, your sisterhood remains. Stay connected, stay involved, and continue to make a difference in the lives of Phi Mu sisters, no matter how far away you are.