“Our ability to be successful and meet the changing demands of a changing world is primarily dependent on the capabilities of our leaders,” Georgia Alpha Lisa Masters said. This is one of the reasons Lisa believes her volunteer position of Leadership Development Officer is crucial to Pi Beta Phi. Having a Leadership Development Officer position illustrates the importance Pi Phi puts on leadership at all levels. “Whether you serve as a chapter or alumnae club officer, as a chapter advisor or on Grand Council – or as a member at large – you have the opportunity to grow as a leader,” Lisa said.
As part of her volunteer role, Lisa assists Pi Beta Phi in the strategic planning process. Lisa has helped the Fraternity develop its strategic plan since 2001. Serving as Leadership Development Officer gives Lisa the opportunity to contribute to the Fraternity in a way that capitalizes on her career experiences. Lisa is Head of Executive Development for a major financial services institution where she sets the direction for organization design and development, succession planning and executive talent development among other things. Over the years, Lisa has brought those experiences and professional skills to her volunteer role with Pi Phi. “As a leadership development practitioner, I have exposure to trends, information and expertise that are relevant but may be less accessible to a membership organization, such as Pi Beta Phi,” Lisa said. “I am able to leverage my experience and share what I’ve learned to help Pi Phi continue to thrive and grow.”
For instance, Lisa led efforts to develop and institutionalize a set of values that underpin her company’s culture. She assisted Pi Phi in the same exercise, which became the foundation for Pi Phi’s Leading with Values® programming. While there are many examples of technical skills Lisa has acquired over the years, it is the power and importance of relationships that Lisa believes is most important. “In an organization where the foundation is sincere friendship, the dynamic is different than in a corporate environment,” Lisa said. “I have seen Pi Phi make the most progress when we have focused on the power of friendship and capitalized on it to strengthen leadership teams and build trust.”
Lisa was in St. Louis in early August along with Grand Council and Headquarters staff Department Heads to facilitate conversation on Pi Beta Phi’s strategic plan. “What I enjoy most is seeing the steady stream of outstanding women and leaders come through the ranks,” Lisa said. “Their conviction, dedication and energy is inspiring!” Lisa also notes that because she has been involved in the strategic planning process for many years, it has been rewarding to see the impact the plan has had over time. This upcoming biennium Lisa looks forward to the surge of energy Pi Phi will undoubtedly receive as the membership celebrates the Fraternity’s 150th anniversary. Lisa is equally excited, and continues to be impressed, with the programming Pi Phi is delivering to its members. “Critical Conversations is a great example of how we continue to evolve rather than rest on our laurels,” Lisa said.
You may be wondering where Lisa’s passion to give back to Pi Phi comes from. While Lisa had an impactful collegiate experience, it was her time as a Leadership Development Consultant that built her confidence, relationship network and helped prepare her for her career. Whether it was serving as a resident at Texas Eta (Texas A&M) and seeing that chapter come to life or visiting Holt House for the first time on her birthday, Lisa says her years as a consultant were “phenomenal.”
Need some career advice? Lisa says, first and foremost, be true to yourself. Second, find something you are passionate about (as you will spend a lot of time doing what it is you do). Third, be willing to take some calculated risks, recognizing the best way to learn is from a misstep or failure ¾ don’t let it set you back. Learn from it and move forward.