When most collegians think of their Tri Delta experience, they picture Formal Recruitment, dances, philanthropy events or meaningful moments in Ritual. But for two sisters—Danika Gagnon, Ottawa, and Claudia Plocher, Pepperdine—their Tri Delta story also includes something much bigger: helping shape the future of the entire Fraternity.
Danika and Claudia currently serve as the collegiate members of Tri Delta’s Leadership Cultivation and Selection Committee (LCSC), a role that not only gives them a voice in important decisions but also offers a once-in-a-lifetime leadership opportunity.
What is the LCSC?
The LCSC is made up of eight alumnae, a chair and two collegians who serve a two-year term. Together, they carry the vital responsibility of slating the next Executive Board, Tri Delta’s Foundation Board of Trustees, the Tri Delta Housing Board and even their own successors on the LCSC. As full voting members, Danika and Claudia ensure that the collegiate perspective is included in conversations about Tri Delta’s present and future leadership.
Their work is extensive and impactful. Over the course of their term, the committee meets with alumnae and leaders, conducting interviews and considering the strategic needs of Tri Delta. For instance, if specific expertise—like legal or financial experience—is needed on a board, the LCSC looks for candidates who can bring that perspective. The process culminates in a formal “slating weekend,” where the next slate of leaders is officially named.
“The experience has opened my eyes to the inner workings of Tri Delta in powerful ways. It has been so impactful getting a perspective of Tri Delta that I never experienced before, and it’s really given me a deeper appreciation and understanding of this organization.” —Claudia Plocher, Pepperdine
“The journey has been so rewarding. Serving as a collegiate member on the LCSC has deeply enriched my Tri Delta experience. I’ve gained a greater appreciation for the meaning behind ‘Once a Tri Delta, always a Tri Delta.’ Being part of this committee has allowed me to connect with and learn from so many inspiring alumnae sisters.” —Danika Gagnon, Ottawa
This current LCSC term has already been unique. In 2024, Danika and Claudia helped slate a mid-term president after Fraternity President Elizabeth Howard DiMartino, Boston, transitioned into a new Executive Office role as Chief Engagement Officer. While many collegians were settling back into campus life, these two were interviewing candidates and participating in an emergency slating session that resulted in the appointment of Libby Leffler Hoaglin, California/Berkeley, as Tri Delta’s new Fraternity President.
And the work continues! This fall, the LCSC will conduct another mid-term slate to fill three vacant seats—all while preparing for the next full slating cycle in 2026. Their term will culminate in March 2026, when the committee will gather in Dallas to slate the Executive Board, Foundation Board of Trustees, Housing Board and LCSC for the 2026-28 biennium.
About the LCSC
The Leadership Cultivation and Selection Committee (LCSC) plays a vital role in Tri Delta’s governance. By identifying, interviewing and selecting leaders for service on key boards, the committee ensures that Tri Delta is guided by strong, diverse and forward-thinking leadership. Collegians like Danika and Claudia add an important perspective to this process, representing the voice of today’s members while preparing to become the leaders of tomorrow.
If you’re passionate about helping shape the future of Tri Delta’s leadership, we’d love to hear from you. For more information about how you can get involved, visit the LCSC webpage on our website.