While membership in Tri Delta most often begins in college, for some, that journey takes longer, but the connection is just as meaningful.
Alumnae Initiation is a powerful reminder that sisterhood isn’t defined by when you join, but rather by the values you share and the relationships you build. Regardless of their life stage, women are choosing to become Tri Deltas as alumnae, bringing with them diverse experiences, perspectives and a shared desire for connection, service and belonging.
Their paths may look different, but the outcome is the same—a deep connection to something greater than themselves and a sisterhood that welcomes them exactly as they are.
Peggy Maguire, Ohio State, Initiated April 2025
As the director of risk management for a national healthcare organization, Peggy has built an impressive career spanning nursing, law and leadership. She’s also passionate about giving back, volunteering to support individuals experiencing homelessness and advocating for mental health parity.
During her undergraduate years, Peggy chose to focus on nursing school. Years later, after a successful career shift into law, she unexpectedly found Tri Delta through women she met in her professional life. Their warmth and genuine connection stayed with her.
When she later discovered Alumnae Initiation through an online search, it felt like the right fit at the right time. From the first event Peggy attended, she knew Tri Delta was the sisterhood for her. She says, “The connections you build now can be just as meaningful—sometimes even more so—than anything you might have experienced in college.”
Now involved with her local alumnae chapter, Peggy has found meaningful friendships, opportunities to give back and a sense of belonging she didn’t realize she’d been missing. Her advice for someone considering joining Tri Delta as an alumna initiate? Trust that you belong.
Mallory Sanford, Alabama, Initiated January 2026
In college, Mallory focused primarily on her studies in engineering and didn’t find herself drawn to the sorority experience. However, she was aware of Tri Delta and formed positive associations and connections to our sisterhood. Years later, she discovered Tri Delta’s Alumnae Initiation program—thanks to a TikTok—and felt an immediate connection.
From her very first conversation with her sponsor, Mallory knew this was a sisterhood she wanted to join. She loved the motto, colors and symbols, as well as the organization’s commitment to philanthropy, including our work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It all felt like home.
Now, she’s diving in—joining local events, reaching out to members and exploring volunteer opportunities. Her advice for anyone considering Alumnae Initiation? You don’t have to know anyone to belong. There’s a place for everyone, and friendships and meaningful involvement come naturally.
Lauren Poteat, Virginia, Initiated July 2025
Lauren joined Tri Delta as an alumna initiate through Beta Sigma Chapter at the University of Virginia while working on her Master of Business Administration at the College of William & Mary. Drawn by the spirit of our Founders, deep-rooted Rituals and lifelong friendships, she knew Tri Delta’s mission and impact aligned with her values. She now serves as a community programming development advisor for Alpha Mu Chapter at William & Mary.
Beyond Tri Delta, Lauren works in the cosmetics industry, is an inaugural William & Mary Aspen Institute Better Arguments Leadership Fellow and serves as Vice Chair of Community Relations for the Junior League of Washington’s Tossed & Found Committee, earning recognition as a “Rising Star” for her leadership and service.
She encourages women considering Alumnae Initiation to dive in. You don’t need to have existing connections to discover community, purpose and lasting friendships. “I am so excited to grow my leadership and service skills with Tri Delta, and I look forward to the fall, when I can celebrate its Founders during my favorite season!”
Isabel Pogozelski, Central Florida, Initiated September 2025
Isabel’s Tri Delta story began in 1989 while visiting her brother at Mississippi State University. She met several Tri Delta sisters who left a lasting impression, and every college visit thereafter incorporated visits to the Tri Delta houses! But life took Isabel on a different path. She received early entry to the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico and Tri Delta was no longer an option during her collegiate years.
Decades later, as her 50th birthday approached, Isabel discovered Alumnae Initiation was an option to find a place in our sisterhood. For Isabel, joining wasn’t just about wearing letters—it was the fulfillment of a dream planted in her youth.
As a doctor of nursing practice–prepared nurse practitioner and faculty member, Isabel mentors future advanced practice nurses, coordinates Puerto Rico’s immunization program and practices primary care in San Juan.
She’s still learning all the ways to become actively involved as a Tri Delta and looks forward to all that’s to come.
Her advice to other interested women is that sisterhood isn’t defined by age—it’s about shared purpose, integrity and standing beside one another.
About Alumnae Initiation
These stories may remind you of a friend or loved one whose journey with Tri Delta has yet to begin. Tri Delta’s Alumnae Initiation program offers women the opportunity to join our sisterhood beyond the collegiate experience. It’s designed for those who align with our values and are looking to build meaningful connections, give back and be part of a lifelong community.
Learn more about Alumnae Initiation and how to get involved. https://www.tridelta.org/our-members/alumnae/alumnae-initiation/