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. 

Marianne Russell (Zeta-Alabama/Tuscaloosa) has been volunteering with Kappa Delta for a decade, dedicating her time, energy and expertise to help the Zeta Chapter at The University of Alabama thrive. As Chapter Advisory Board (CAB) chair, she plays a vital role in guiding chapter leadership, working closely with council members and ensuring a smooth transition between semesters.

Marianne’s time commitment varies throughout the year, with busy periods like the start of school, primary recruitment and the weeks before officer transitions. Her role is both exciting and rewarding, giving her a chance to dive deeper into building strong connections with her team and chapter leaders. 

We caught up with Marianne to hear why she volunteers with Kappa Delta and what it means to her! 

What’s been your favorite part of the CAB chair role? Working with a team of women who are dedicated to Zeta Chapter! My entire CAB energizes me to be the best I can be. We hold each other up during difficult situations, whether it is chapter-related or personal. We laugh until we cry and enjoy our time together. 

What do you find to be the most rewarding part of advising? I treasure my working relationship with our board, and my friendships with these women is a blessing in my life. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how much I love working with collegiate leaders and the women in the chapter. I am one lucky duck! My life is better because of the bonds of this sisterhood. 

Do you have any advice for volunteers taking on the CAB chair role? Review the Member Handbook! Surround yourself with women that complete the board. Most of my board has been together for several years and our latest additions are a perfect match. Trust your board members to do their job, and let them do it! It will make the day-to-day KD business much easier for you. I served as the CAB learning & development for nine years, and being chair is new and challenging. 

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?  

Email kdnews@kappadelta.orgcreate new email to share!