Each month, the Boston AOII Alumnae chapter will be spotlighting a sister. AOII is for a lifetime, and the purpose of this spotlight series is to highlight how we can all bring AOII values into the world around us. Enjoy!
Roses,
Danielle – Boston AOII Executive Board Secretary
Name: Koren Phillips
Chapter, University: Phi Chi, University of Chicago
Member since: 2001
Occupation: Administrative Director, Mass General Cancer Center Network
Favorite AOII memory?
”There are too many to count! I think one of my fondest AOII memories is being able to initiate new members as Chapter President. To share that experience with our newest sisters is really something incredibly special.”
What was your “ah-ha” moment, when you knew AOII was right for you?
”At UChicago, Formal Recruitment occurs during the 3rd week of school – so there were only a handful of weeks in my collegiate experience when I wasn’t an AOII. I knew AOII was right for me as I met so many dynamic and interesting women – I saw future role models and friends in these women, many of whom are still my best friends today – and I couldn’t imagine myself in any other chapter.”
What has AOII taught you?
”How much time do you have for me to answer this question? I could really write an essay on this topic. But, in a nutshell, AOII has taught me love, kindness, humility, humor, leadership, and laughter – so many things that have made me the person I am today.”
How have you stayed involved with AOII?
”I’ve served as an alumnae chapter officer many times, as a member of an AAC, a Network Specialist, and most recently I am serving my 3rd term on the Foundation Board. I am proud to be the Foundation President.”
What do you love most about Boston?
”I love how Boston feels like a “big town” – you have all of the amenities of a big city on a tiny scale. It makes me so happy to be on the water and to have the ability to walk anywhere I want to go. My parents are originally from Boston and our extended family has always lived here; even when we didn’t live here, it’s always been a home away from home.”
What advice do you have for sisters who are soon to be alums?
”Get involved with AOII wherever you may go! You never know where you’re going to meet your new best friend or find a new opportunity – don’t forget that AOII is for a lifetime.”
Thanks SO much, Koren! We are lucky to have you in our alumnae chapter!
If you want to be featured, or know someone who should, please email danielleiriskushner@gmail.com 🙂