I’ll never forget seeing you girls run into our arms on bid day last year. I’ve never been hugged so tight, seen more excited faces, or felt more love in a crowd of people. You girls have brought a new energy into our chapter that can’t be replaced. You’re fun, outgoing, charismatic, and have helped transform our chapter into something fresh and new. I’m jealous of how beautiful you all are, how you each have your own light and zest, and how much time you have left as active members of our sorority.

As my time as an active member is coming to a close, I can’t help but reflect on the last two years I have spent in the chapter. I have created countless friendships, gave lots of hugs, shed some tears, and can confidently say that I feel as though I have helped to leave the chapter better than I found it. However, I still have the lingering feeling that I could have done more. I could have held another position, I could have reached out to more sisters for coffee dates or sleepovers, or I could have gone to more sisterhoods and socials. I joined as a junior and knew that my time would be limited, but I had no idea that it would fly by so fast and that before I knew it I would be in the final days of my active membership. Although my days are limited, I am still wondering what else I could do to help our sisters realize their potential, and how else I could make a difference.

So sisters, this one is for you. As my parting words to you girls, please remember that your time as an active member is so short. You’re going to blink and it will be gone, so hold onto each other. Reach out to one different sister a week for coffee or just a homework date. Hold your sisters’ hands a little tighter when you say our symphony at chapter. Go to more sisterhoods, even if you don’t like the theme. Be active.

Be a leader. For some of you this might mean taking on a position, but oftentimes I have found that the most powerful way to lead is in silence. Be an example for the Greek community, on campus, and in the world. Wear your letters with pride and walk tall. You are all such strong women, and you’re going to not only make our chapter strong, but the world strong as well.

With that being said, remember you’re always wearing your letters. Yes, I know we say this a lot, but it’s true. From the second you are initiated, you wear our letters in your heart forever. Be mindful of that when you are out and about, in your conversations, and when you’re in class. You are a living, breathing representation of what it means to be an Alpha Xi Delta. Remember that next time you’re at a party, when you want to sass that rude customer at your work, or when you want to flip off that person who cut you off on the freeway. Always be kind. Always radiate sunshine. Always be an Alpha Xi.

Although your active membership is the shortest time of your membership of this organization, it’s the most important time. I will always remember the precious moments I have created with you all in this organization. I hope that you remember me, too.

Love you, sisters. TFJ forever and always.

Taylor