LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT

Hello and welcome to Lambda Delta Phi’s website, we’re so happy you’re here!
My name is Clare Viau, a senior studying Plant Science. I’m originally from Plover, Wisconsin but I have been lucky enough to find a second home here at the University of Minnesota. My older sister attended the U, and was a member of Lambda Delta Phi, so she gently pushed me towards visiting the house my freshman year, which immediately felt like a familiar place in the blur of newness and uncertainty that comes when
entering college. I saw the incredible teamwork, leadership, and most of all friendship going on at 1381 Cleveland Ave, and knew that this was the type of community I wanted to be a part of. I have always set a high standard for myself academically, and knew I had many goals that I wanted to achieve like studying abroad, doing research on campus, and applying for graduate school while in undergrad. My desire to be surrounded by other women with a strong focus on academics and professional development drew me to join LDPhi. All of the women that I have been fortunate to know throughout my time here have been inspirations and constant motivation to keep working towards my own and the collective goals of the community.
The support system within our chapter is unmatched, whether it’s learning how to cook new recipes for the first time on a weeknight cooking crew or preparing for an upcoming internship interview, there’s always a team of sisters there to lend a helping hand. Our chapter house offers easy access to the St. Paul campus, which is a quieter and more homey environment that still connects seamlessly to the Minneapolis campus. I love spending time on our front porch that overlooks the St. Paul Mall! Additionally, we have a huge network of alumni and friendly faces across campus through our connections across St. Paul organizations, CFANS departments and leadership opportunities, and with all of Greek life through our Panhellenic affiliation.
There’s no single reason why our members choose to join LDPhi and each of us have our own path, but there are many different benefits and reasons to stay. Being a member of multiple committees and taking on executive positions as Scholastics Chair and now President, has taught me leadership, communication, and planning skills while also developing organizational and time management skills to balance all of my responsibilities. In my role as president, I love getting to know all of our members as I have the opportunity to work with each of them to reach their own personal goals, and I am excited to see how our chapter continues to grow with actives taking on new roles and welcoming new members through our blue door.
Lambda Love,
Clare