Beyond the Bank

When I think about the moments that have shaped who I am, I often return to the fall of 1999. I was a senior at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, preparing for graduation, when I made a decision that surprised even me: I joined Theta Phi Alpha Sorority.

My twin sister had already joined years before, and I’d spent a lot of time with her sorority sisters. Even though I wasn’t exactly what most people pictured when they thought of a “sorority girl,” I felt drawn to the community they had built—one grounded in belonging, support, and purpose.

Some people might wonder why I’d join a sorority so late in my college career. But for me, it was about finding a place where I could contribute, connect, and belong. From the start, I was inspired by the women I met—women who believed in service, in upholding traditions, and in building each other up.

Finding Belonging and Purpose

Not long after, I became Ritual Chairman for our chapter. It was my responsibility to help guide our ceremonies and honor the traditions that connect members across generations. I learned the importance of respecting the past while inspiring progress. Standing in front of my sisters, explaining the meaning behind each ritual, was the first time I realized how much I valued mentorship, stewardship, and preserving a shared culture.

After graduation, my commitment to Theta Phi Alpha only deepened. I continued to serve at the national level for nearly twenty years as the National Ritual Chairman, helping to carry forward the very traditions that had welcomed me. I also contributed as the designer of The Compass, our magazine, and served on the Board of Trustees. Those experiences taught me that leadership isn’t always about being the most outgoing person in the room. Sometimes, it’s about showing up consistently, caring deeply, and quietly working to leave something better than you found it.

Carrying Those Lessons Into My Career

Today, in my professional life, I still carry those lessons with me. At Fidelity Bank, our values—integrity, community, dependability, and accountability—are the same ideals I first encountered in my sorority experience. Whether I’m collaborating with our team on digital initiatives, mentoring colleagues, or supporting the company’s community outreach initiatives, I see echoes of that same commitment. We’re here to provide financial solutions, yes—but also to inspire, uplift, and invest in the people who call Louisiana home.

At Fidelity Bank, we believe in giving back and creating opportunities for the next generation. Our Teen Ambassador Program is designed to help young people gain real-world experience in banking and financial literacy—skills that empower them to thrive personally and professionally. For women entrepreneurs, our P.O.W.E.R. Program (Potential of Women Entrepreneurs Realized) offers education, networking, and resources to help them grow their businesses with confidence.

As our bank expands into Lafayette and new communities across Louisiana, we’re reinforcing the importance of community—of taking time to understand a place, to invest in its people, and to build relationships that last. Just like those early days in Theta Phi Alpha, it’s about believing in something bigger than yourself.

I’ve often reflected on why my experience with Theta Phi Alpha feels so relevant to my work at Fidelity Bank. In many ways, they share a common purpose: to create spaces where people feel supported, valued, and inspired to grow. Whether it’s a sorority chapter or a community bank, both are built on a foundation of trust, shared goals, and a commitment to leaving things better for the next generation. That’s why telling this story here feels meaningful—because it reminds me that no matter where we serve, the impact of showing up with purpose is the same.

The Power of Showing Up

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that commitment is a choice we make every day—whether we’re showing up for our families, our colleagues, or the communities we call home. And sometimes, the seeds of that commitment are planted in the most unexpected moments—a recruitment event you almost didn’t attend, a ritual you led, a project you volunteered to take on.

I’m grateful for all of it. And I’m proud to be part of two organizations that share those same values.

If you’ve ever thought about joining a cause or organization that aligns with your passions, I encourage you to take that first step. Your involvement has the power to create a ripple effect that transforms lives—and strengthens the communities we share.

If you’re curious about how Fidelity Bank supports community engagement, youth empowerment, and women in business, you can learn more about our programs here.