Sister Spotlight: Andrea D.

We can't wait to welcome back our sister Andrea Duty after her semester abroad in London, England! She spent Fall 2013 taking classes at The Foundation for International Education and interning with the Organic Trade Board.

"I loved all the markets and different cultures that were present in London! I tried to do a bit of everything from seeing Wicked the musical, going rock climbing and bouldering in the English countryside, and even watching a football game in a traditional pub."

Her favorite part of the trip was the opportunity to visit several other countries while living in London. These included Ireland, Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, Spain, Wales and Iceland. Andrea also enjoyed trying new foods; surfing, cliff diving and seeing a family of seals in Wales; and visiting the hot springs in Iceland.

Thank you Mama and Papa!

As our sisters prepare to travel across the country to see relatives for the holidays, we would like to take a moment to say thank you to the two people who make 1152 E. Panhellenic Drive our home away from home. 

Sharon and Don Gaddo have spent the last 10 years as Alpha Nu's house managers. But our sisters don't think of them as "managers". They're our house parents; we know them as Mama and Papa. From day one they went above and beyond in their duties, leaving alumnae and active collegiate members thankful for the time we are given with them.

From hosting trivia competitions, cooking evening snacks and sharing their wisdom at chapter, Mama and Papa are always there for us even when we just need someone to talk to. Some of our seniors took time this week to share why they love Mama and Papa so much.

Stephanie Facompre, PC '10: "Mama Sharon and Papa Don are some of the most giving and selfless people I've ever met. The most amazing part to me is how often they spontaneously reach out to a sister in need. Even before I became close with them, they were there for me during difficult times with unconditional love and support."

Celia Meyer, PC '10: "Papa Don is probably one of the most interesting people I've ever met. I'm sure I'll never meet anyone else who agreed to be a house dad that writes novels and met the Queen. I love spending time with both of them and hearing all of their stories, they've both made Phi Mu feel like my home for four years."

Kirby Newkirk, PC '10: "I love starting my day off talking to Mama Sharon before I leave for class. Whether it is over breakfast or when I am making my coffee, she always takes the time to ask how I have been. I know I can always go to her if I ever need anything. Papa Don always puts a smile on my face when I see him and he calls out 'Hey Commodore, how are ya doin' today?' The amount of time that they spend on this chapter is amazing. We are so blessed to have them as our house parents!"