By Avery Newkirk

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. 

Meet Sue Hicks (Epsilon Tau-Clemson), an impactful volunteer who currently serves as the local house corporation president for the Theta Zeta chapter at Lehigh University. Sue has been in this role since the chapter was founded over 10 years ago, and she has had her hand in renovating two houses. Dedicating anywhere from five to 20 hours a week, Sue’s goal has always been to grow and evolve the housing environment for future generations of Kappa Deltas.  

Curious to learn more about her dedication, we caught up with Sue to hear why she volunteers with Kappa Delta and what it means to her! 

What inspired you to volunteer for Kappa Delta? I began volunteering for Kappa Delta right after graduate school when I married and moved to Virginia. I immediately joined the Epsilon Pi-Virginia Tech CAB and have not stopped volunteering since. It’s been more than 30 years! My heart and dedication to volunteering continues to shine through me as the years go on. I wanted the chance to inspire and make many dreams come true in Kappa Delta, just as mine did during my time as a collegiate member.  

What do you get out of your time volunteering? At this point in my life—with my kids out of college—the biggest satisfaction for me is knowing I am enriching a member’s experience and giving their parents comfort and piece of mind. I feel the work our board does promotes a stronger sisterhood, college experience and the opportunity for sisters to be their best selves. Our house truly is a home.  

Tell us about a memorable moment you’ve had volunteering. My most memorable moments have been supporting our directors of collegiate facilities as they find the leadership and communication styles that are most effective for them. Our board works hard to communicate and gather member input into our decision making. Sisters feel they have a say in the house. I just love doing the little things that make a big difference —fun quizzes for new members, seasonal coffee syrups and cookie breaks. 

What advice do you have for other Kappa Deltas who are interested in volunteering? Near or far, a big role or a small one, there is always something you can do! No matter what type of strengths you bring to the table, you are always able to make an impact on others.    

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!