Twenty-five years ago, when Nevada Alpha Cindy Buchanan was still an undergrad at the University of Nevada and watching soap operas in the basement of the Pi Phi house, she got to attend a very special birthday party. At the time, she was a brand-new college student trying to figure out classes and friends and what she wanted to be when she grew up. But after this party, Cindy had a clear vision for the future.

What kind of birthday party could make such an impression on young Cindy? It was the 75th anniversary of her chapter, Nevada Alpha. It was that one night, full of meeting Pi Phi alumnae from multiple generations — the first time she’d ever seen a Pi Phi over the age of 21 — that convinced Cindy she wanted to stay involved until the 100th anniversary of Nevada Alpha (which took place this past November). And that night she not only became fiercely loyal to Pi Phi, but also to the University of Nevada and every individual who calls him or herself a member of the Wolf Pack.

Today, Cindy is a successful career woman. She works for a national bank specializing in small to midsize businesses ($2 million to $20 million in revenue for the layman), helping them with lending for commercial buildings, equipment financing and other lines of credit. She’s served community organizations in myriad ways, most notable serving as President of the Nevada Alumni Council. And she almost single-handedly planned the on-site logistics for the Nevada Alpha centennial, the equivalent of a 200-person wedding. Photographer? Check. DJ? Check. Tablecloths, centerpieces, seating assignments … check, check, check.

How does she do it all? “I never get involved in an organization that I can’t give 100 percent to,” Cindy said. “And it takes balance. And still making sure there’s enough time for yourself and your family.” So when she’s not living and dying by her Outlook calendar, Cindy is a self-described “foodie” and purveyor of the spa day — hot tub, massages, steam room, sauna — you name it, she deserves it!