“If I am not surrounded by people that I truly love and adore, I am not happy,” proclaims Ohio Theta Devyn Russell, who wants to be around her sisters even when she is studying. She is currently the Vice President of Member Development (VPMD) and continues to find new ways to motivate the chapter. Devyn has created a major-matching program to connect sisters to provide tutoring and academic counseling. She is even willing to tutor her peers herself. In the short amount of time we spent together, it is no surprise to me that her sisters would want to be around someone as enthusiastic and kind as Devyn. So it is shocking to hear that Devyn almost did not come back to school this year.
Two years ago, Devyn was diagnosed with lupus, a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body. She was very sick last year, needing oral chemotherapy to overcome recurring lung infections. She has bravely battled her illness, and she has not been alone in her journey. There was at least one Pi Phi with her in the hospital each night, and when she came home, sisters assisted by picking up her prescriptions or her classwork while she regained her strength. She feels indebted to the sisters that supported her through this time. But due to continued health issues and the growing medical debt acquired from x-rays, cat scans and other treatments, Devyn did not believe she could return to Bowling Green State University this past fall.
Devyn was devastated to tell Chapter President Katlyn Iacovino that she would not be returning, which also meant she could not continuing serving as VPMD. Instead of accepting this fate, Katlyn decided to help Devyn find a way to assist her sister. Katlyn suggested Devyn apply for the Emma Harper Turner Fund program, which grants financial assistance to alumnae and collegians in dire financial need. Not only did Katlyn inform her of the opportunity, but wrote a recommendation letter for Devyn, too.
Devyn heard back from Pi Beta Phi Foundation soon after that she would receive a grant! The staff at the Foundation made the process easy for Devyn, which she could not be more grateful for. But what stood out the most to Devyn was the letter written by Katlyn. Devyn remembers opening the letter and being brought to tears.
“It was the kind of letter someone cannot write unless they pay attention to you,” recalls Devyn. Devyn praises Katlyn because she is so attentive to everyone in their chapter and feels she could provide the same love and support for any sister. This experience made Devyn love Pi Phi even more.
I am thrilled that Devyn is able to continue her studies and be surrounded by the sisters she loves. And if there ever was a doubt, I am reminded by Devyn’s divine words: “Never be afraid to lean on your sisters. God gave them to you for a reason.”
The Emma Harper Turner Fund is the emergency assistance fund for sisters in dire financial need due to unforeseen life circumstances. For more information about the Emma Harper Turner Fund, visit pibetaphifoundation.org or call (636) 256–1357.