Grace Newcombe, the current Vice President of Federal Advocacy and Communications at the League of Southeastern Credit Unions & Affiliates, exemplifies how involvement in Fraternity and Sorority Life can be a powerful catalyst for leadership and advocacy roles. As a former Student Body President at the University of South Alabama (2018-2019), Grace credits her time in Phi Mu sorority with significantly shaping her leadership journey. Here’s how her fraternity and sorority life experience played a pivotal role in her student government success and her career in advocacy.
Building a Community of Support
Grace recalls how being part of Phi Mu connected her with like-minded individuals who were equally passionate about making a difference on campus. “Fraternity and sorority life automatically connected me to a community eager to support each other and our collective campus initiatives,” Grace explains. This network was not just a social circle but a foundational element that enhanced her visibility and relational connections, critical for her campaign in student government.
A Catalyst for Involvement
From the moment she stepped onto the University of South Alabama campus, Grace felt a strong calling to engage deeply with campus life. Her personal motivations for running for student government were fueled by her immediate connection to the campus and its commitment to student resources. “I was drawn to initiatives that resonated with my values, like enhancing mental health access, supporting service members and veterans, and improving transportation,” she shares.
Her decision to run for Student Body President was significantly influenced by her sorority experience. Surrounded by supportive sisters and witnessing other fraternity and sorority members thrive in student government roles, Grace found the courage and support to aim for higher leadership positions. “Being in Phi Mu not only showed me my potential but also the significant impact we could have as a collective voice,” she notes.
The Importance of Fraternity and Sorority Involvement in Student Governance
Grace strongly believes in the importance of fraternity and sorority members participating in campus activities and student government. According to her, involvement in these areas extends the mission of fraternity and sorority organizations by fostering a spirit of community and leadership among members. “It’s not just about representing our organizations; it’s about utilizing our values to make a meaningful impact,” Grace states. This involvement also serves as a crucial networking and professional development platform, preparing members for future career opportunities.
Looking Forward
Today, as a key advocate for credit unions, Grace continues to utilize the skills and connections she developed through her fraternity and sorority life and student government experiences. Her story is a compelling example for current students in fraternity and sorority organizations, showing that their involvement can lead to significant leadership opportunities both on and off-campus.
Grace Newcombe’s journey from Phi Mu sorority member to a leader in federal advocacy underscores the unique role that fraternity and sorority life can play in nurturing future leaders. Her experience eloquently answers why engagement in campus life and student government is not just beneficial but essential for personal and professional growth.
