Since she was young, Pi Beta Phi has literally been in sight for junior Natalie Perez, California Beta. Natalie’s brother played football for UC Berkeley so for years, Natalie’s family tailgated in a small grass patch on Piedmont Avenue just steps from the California Memorial Stadium.

Being from nearby Patterson, California, just east of the Bay Area, there is always a small community of Patterson students that end up at Cal. So when family friend, Christina, was invited to the Perez family’s tailgate, she was thrilled to introduce Natalie and her family to Pi Beta Phi, starting with House Director Kay Filippo, Arkansas Alpha. When it was time for Natalie to attend Cal, she knew Pi Phi and Kay would be part of her collegiate career.

“Berkeley is tough,” Natalie admits. “I think when it comes to tough times, you have to stick it out.” She believes Pi Phi has helped her to enjoy college, especially by developing sincere friendships over the last few years. “These friends know the more developed adult side of me because we have grown together,” she said. “We can give each other advice and receive advice from one another.”

Now, as Vice President of Membership, Natalie is happy to welcome 39 New Members to California Beta and the Cal fraternity and sorority community. “We have an inclusive Greek community,” Natalie said. “We love Panhellenic-wide events. And we see the bigger picture and what’s important. Our chapter members know what values they want to show.”

Natalie currently lives in the chapter house leading very spirited Cal game days with her sisters. Kay continues to be a close friend of Natalie’s family, occasionally stopping by to visit the Perez family tailgate on game days.