By: Johannah Bay, Kappa Delta Foundation Programs Coordinator

Kappa Delta volunteers are our foundation. They give their time, energy and expertise to keep Kappa Delta moving forward, and our organization would not be the same without them. Every month on the Emerald Edit, we’ll highlight one of our many incredible volunteers to showcase the impact they have on our members. 

For the last four years, Megan Gilbert (Alpha Rho–University of Maryland) has volunteered with the Kappa Delta Foundation, helping read and score applications for the 300+ scholarships offered annually. Through this work, Megan has seen firsthand how our sisterhood shapes college experiences and impacts lives. 

A long-time sorority volunteer, Megan currently serves as a CAB specialist, but her work with the Foundation holds a special place in her heart. “While I have volunteered for Kappa Delta in many capacities as an alumna, serving on the Scholarship Review Committee has been especially rewarding because it allows me to directly support the Foundation’s mission to ‘unite sisters to invest in one another, fostering a legacy of support and empowerment,’” she says. 

We recently caught up with Megan to learn more about her experience as a Foundation volunteer and what she loves most about this unique opportunity! 

What’s the best part of being a Kappa Delta Foundation volunteer? The most fulfilling aspect is seeing how the Foundation’s support transforms lives and advances Kappa Delta’s mission to “build confident sisters and inspire them to action.” Each scholarship application tells a unique story of determination and growth, from undergraduates just starting out to graduate students pursuing advanced degrees. Knowing our awards can remove financial barriers that might otherwise prevent these women from reaching their goals is deeply rewarding. It’s meaningful work that reflects the heart of Kappa Delta—sisters supporting sisters. 

What do you get out of your time volunteering? Beyond feeling more connected to our organization, reading these applications reminds me of the incredible women Kappa Delta attracts—their achievements, their service to others and how they’ve grown through challenges.  

Tell us about a memorable moment you’ve had while volunteering. One application that really stood out was from a first-generation college student who wrote about being the first in her family to attend university. She described how she had to figure out everything from course selection to campus resources on her own, and how Kappa Delta became her support network and helped her thrive academically. Her essay showcased such maturity and self-awareness about her journey. What struck me most was how confident and determined she was, balancing her academics with active involvement in her chapter. Reading her story reminded me that behind every application is a real person with dreams and challenges, and that’s what makes this volunteer work so meaningful to me. 

What advice do you have for other Kappa Deltas who are interested in volunteering? Don’t hesitate to get involved, even if you think you don’t have enough time or experience. If you’re worried about time commitments, scholarship review is actually a great way to give back—it’s only a few weeks a year, but the impact is so meaningful. You don’t need special experience, just genuine care for supporting our sisters. You’ll feel more connected to Kappa Delta’s mission and gain a real appreciation for the amazing women in our organization! 

Interested in volunteering with KD?   

There are so many opportunities to share your time and talent. From working with a local collegiate chapter on a chapter advisory board or house corporation board to serving on a foundation committee like the scholarship review committee, we are grateful for the thousands of alumnae who give back to KD. Join us!     

Visit kappadelta.org/volunteer to browse opportunities and learn about next steps.     

Know a sister who should be a featured volunteer?  

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